Pearse Doherty
Question:41. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the average annual rate of interest paid on the national debt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21469/25]
View answerFiscal Data
Questions (41, 42)
Pearse Doherty
Question:42. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the average annual rate of interest paid on debt issued in the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21470/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 42 together.
The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has informed me that based on the most recently published General Government debt and interest figures from the CSO, the average interest rate on Ireland’s General Government debt was 1.5% in 2024.
Additionally, the NTMA has advised that the weighted average yield on Ireland’s total benchmark bond issuance from 2015 to end-Q1 2025 was 1.0%. Total benchmark bond issuance over that period was €138bn.
Question No. 42 answered with Question No. 41.
Fiscal Data
Questions (43)
Pearse Doherty
Question:43. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the total amount of ten-year national solidarity bonds, five-year saving certificates, three-year savings bonds and prize bonds in circulation each year since 2015; the total value of year each year; the annual interest repayment for each category of bond each year, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21471/25]
View answerWritten answers
The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has supplied me with the table below which shows the total amount of 10 Year National Solidarity Bonds, 5 Year Savings Certificates, 3 Year Savings Bonds and Prize Bonds in circulation since 2015 and annual interest repayment for each category of bond each year.
Interest repayment includes interest paid to customers because of products maturing or early encashment. For Prize Bonds, the annual interest repayment is the Prize Fund paid to customers and this has been included in the table.
|
|
National Solidarity Bonds - 10 Year |
National Solidarity Bonds - 10 Year |
Saving Certificates - 5 Year |
Saving Certificates - 5 Year |
Saving Bonds - 3 Year |
Saving Bonds - 3 Year |
Prize Bonds |
Prize Bonds |
|
|
Closing Balance - Bln € |
Interest repayment Mln € |
Closing Balance - Bln € |
Interest repayment - Mln € |
Closing Balance Bln € |
Interest repayment Mln € |
Closing Balance Bln € |
Prize Fund €m |
|
2015 |
2.1 |
10 |
5.9 |
212 |
4.4 |
197 |
2.5 |
29 |
|
2016 |
2.6 |
10 |
5.9 |
194 |
3.8 |
104 |
2.9 |
27 |
|
2017 |
3.0 |
11 |
6.0 |
147 |
3.3 |
47 |
3.2 |
21 |
|
2018 |
3.5 |
11 |
5.7 |
285 |
2.9 |
35 |
3.4 |
18 |
|
2019 |
3.9 |
12 |
6.0 |
70 |
2.5 |
24 |
3.7 |
18 |
|
2020 |
4.3 |
127 |
6.2 |
75 |
2.4 |
10 |
4.1 |
19 |
|
2021 |
4.7 |
68 |
6.1 |
83 |
2.4 |
10 |
4.4 |
16 |
|
2022 |
4.9 |
78 |
5.9 |
49 |
2.4 |
9 |
4.7 |
16 |
|
2023 |
5.0 |
120 |
5.7 |
78 |
2.5 |
8 |
4.7 |
24 |
|
2024 |
5.2 |
119 |
5.7 |
56 |
2.6 |
10 |
4.5 |
46 |
Financial Services
Questions (44)
Pearse Doherty
Question:44. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the rationale for allowing less transparency for passively traded exchange traded funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21472/25]
View answerWritten answers
An Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) is an investment fund that can be traded on exchange similar to other listed stocks or securities.
In order to facilitate the trading of shares in the ETF, it relies on Authorised Participants and Market Makers to provide market liquidity and pricing.
Authorised Participants and Market Makers play an important role in arbitraging any pricing differential that may arise from trading activity that results in fluctuations in the ETF’s share price that deviate from the underlying net asset value of the fund’s investment portfolio.
In order to support the effective operation of the arbitrage mechanism, the ETF will disclose daily information on its portfolio to its Authorised Participants and Market Makers.
In 2014, the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) published UCITS Q&A ID 1012 www.centralbank.ie/docs/default-source/regulation/industry-market-sectors/funds/ucits/guidance/4-gns-4-4-8-1-2-ucits-qa-no-4.pdf?sfvrsn=22bd71d_6 which required active ETFs to disclose their portfolio holdings on a daily basis as it was understood at the time that this was necessary to ensure the effective operation of the arbitrage mechanism.
In 2018, the CBI published its feedback statement to Discussion Paper 6 – Exchange Traded Funds (DP6) www.centralbank.ie/news/article/feedback-statement-exchange-traded-funds-14-septermber-2018. DP6 covered a number of themes including portfolio transparency, acknowledging that there are alternative approaches to daily portfolio disclosure that can still support the effective operation of the arbitrage mechanism, and DP6 committed to keeping this issue under review. DP6 further noted that unlisted UCITS were not required to disclose their portfolio holdings on a daily basis and that market practice was to issue such disclosures on a quarterly basis.
The CBI was a member of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) Working Group that developed the Good Practices Relating to the Implementation of the IOSCO Principles for Exchange Traded Funds. www.iosco.org/library/pubdocs/pdf/IOSCOPD733.pdf In 2023, IOSCO published its final report that included a series of recommendations including on portfolio disclosures concluding that ‘Regulators are encouraged to consider requirements regarding the transparency of an ETF’s portfolio and/or other appropriate information provided to market participants so as to facilitate effective arbitrage’.
ETF portfolio disclosure was also considered as part of the Department of Finance Funds Review 2030 that recommended the CBI ‘continue to keep under consideration its requirements regarding portfolio transparency for ETFs, recognising the possibility of alternative approaches’.
The issue of ETF portfolio disclosure has been an area of focus for the CBI as the international regulatory environment and ETF markets generally have moved away from requiring daily disclosure. This also reflects the increasing sophistication of Authorised Participants and Market Makers and their ability to effectively arbitrage the ETF without the need for full disclosure of the portfolio.
In implementing the IOSCO and Funds Review 2030 recommendation, the CBI engaged with stakeholders in early 2025, resulting in the revision of UCITS QA ID 1012 www.centralbank.ie/docs/default-source/regulation/industry-market-sectors/funds/ucits/guidance/42nd-edition-ucits-qa.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=941d671a_10 to permit UCITS ETFs to disclose their portfolio holdings on a daily or periodic basis subject to the following requirements:
appropriate information is disclosed on a daily basis to facilitate an effective arbitrage mechanism;
the prospectus discloses the type of information that is provided in point (i);
this information is made available on a non-discriminatory basis to Authorised Participants and Market Makers;
there are documented procedures to address circumstances where the arbitrage mechanism of the ETF is impaired;
there is a documented procedure for investors to request portfolio information; and,
the portfolio holdings as at the end of each calendar quarter are disclosed publicly within 30 business-days of the end of the quarter.
This approach allows ETFs to safeguard their portfolio information and prevents the duplication of the fund’s investment strategy or the front running of its trading activity which is also relevant for passively managed ETFs when the indices they are tracking are re-balanced.
At the same time, the revised Q&A www.centralbank.ie/docs/default-source/regulation/industry-market-sectors/funds/ucits/guidance/42nd-edition-ucits-qa.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=941d671a_10 ensures that investors are provided with regular disclosures of the portfolio holdings and confirms that there is a documented process in place so allowing investors to request portfolio information more frequently if required.
Financial Services
Questions (45)
Pearse Doherty
Question:45. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 357 of 8 April 2025, of the 500 complaints currently active with the FSPO that were received 7 April 2020 the number that were placed on hold at some stage; the average duration of the hold; the number of the 500 were closed and reopened; the average duration between closing and reopening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21473/25]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to advise the Deputy that it was not possible to collate the information sought in the time available and, therefore, I will make arrangements to provide the information to the Deputy as soon as possible and in line with Standing Order 42A.
Tax Avoidance
Questions (46)
Pearse Doherty
Question:46. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 64 to 66 of 9 April 2025, if he was presented evidence by the Revenue Commissioners that the amendment introduced into the PRSA pension schemes in the Finance Act 2022 was being used in a manner not in keeping with the policy intention; the estimated scale in value terms and in number of people involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21474/25]
View answerWritten answers
The process of ensuring that taxation relief is availed of in an appropriate manner is ongoing and continuous and involves Revenue and my Department working closely together to monitor developments, assess data and, where necessary, amend provisions to avoid misuse.
As the Deputy is aware, Section 22 Finance Act 2022 removed the difference in treatment between PRSAs and occupational pension schemes. The amendment abolished the Benefit in Kind (BIK) charge on employer contributions to an employee’s PRSA. In addition, employer contributions to an employee’s PRSA no longer counted towards an employee’s age and salary related percentage limits on tax deductible contributions. The change in approach for PRSAs was recommended by the Interdepartmental Pension Reform and Taxation Group (IDPRTG) with a view to improving and simplifying the pension landscape in Ireland.
As with the introduction of any new provision, Revenue monitors trends and conducts analysis based on actual data to ensure the measure is operating as intended. I can confirm that Revenue submitted a paper to my Department outlining its findings and concerns regarding how the provisions were operating, on the basis of data relating to employer contributions to PRSAs in 2023 submitted in the payroll returns for that year.
The Revenue statistics supplied to my Department identified categories of cases that gave rise to concerns. Revenue data shows that in these cases, the employer contributions to PRSAs were significantly higher than the salary associated with the employment and, in many of these cases, the recipient of the contribution had a connection to the employer (for example, owner or spouse, child, parent of the employer).
For reasons of taxpayer confidentiality, I am unable to share all the data provided by Revenue. However, I can state that Revenue’s analysis of employer PRSA contributions included in the payroll returns for 2023 indicated that there were 125 employments in 2023 where the employer PRSA contribution exceeded €100,000, and in 99 of these cases Revenue established that the employee had a connection with the employer (for example, owner or spouse, child, parent of the employer). Whereas the 125 cases in 2023 represent 0.3% of the total number of employments with employer PRSA contributions in that year, the contributions paid in respect of these cases represents 20% of the overall amount of employer PRSA contributions in the same period.
To illustrate the nature of the behaviour and structures put in place by individuals and businesses, Revenue provided real life anonymised examples to further demonstrate how these changes were not in line with the policy intention. I am cognisant of the obligation to protect taxpayer confidentiality under section 851A Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 and I am therefore not in a position to share these specific examples provided to my Department by Revenue.
My officials in the Department engaged with Revenue following the submission of their analysis and I introduced an employer limit in Finance Act 2024 to address the concerns raised.
Tax Avoidance
Questions (47)
Pearse Doherty
Question:47. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 64 to 66 of 9 April 2025, to provide further detail on the reason General Anti-Avoidance Regulations can not be used to recoup unpaid tax if people rearranged their affairs for the sole purpose of gaining a tax benefit given that tax avoidance is defined as transactions which are undertaken primarily to claim a tax advantage and not for genuine business reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21492/25]
View answerWritten answers
As outlined in response to Questions Nos. 64, 65 and 66 on 9 April last, section 22 Finance Act 2022 amended the provisions for employer PRSA contributions. As with any change in tax policy, Revenue monitored developments after the introduction of these provisions. From Revenue’s analysis of employer PRSA contributions in 2023, it appeared some cases displayed behaviour that was not in keeping with the policy intention of the changes. Section 12 Finance Act 2024 aimed to address these concerns by imposing a limit on the size of employer contributions to a PRSA that are not considered a BIK. I am informed by Revenue that there is a continuous focus on compliance across pensions, which involves identifying and confronting non-compliant behaviour.
I am advised by Revenue that the taxpayer confidentiality provisions in section 851A Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (TCA) prohibits it from commenting further on the application of the General Anti-Avoidance Rule (the “GAAR”) in these specific instances.
However, Revenue has advised that, in general terms, tax avoidance is applying tax legislation in a way that inappropriately obtains a tax advantage. Tax avoidance can involve the misuse of tax reliefs and allowances or the re-characterisation of a transaction. It involves transactions which are undertaken primarily to claim a tax advantage and not for genuine business reasons.
In relation to the question of the application of what is sometimes referred to as the general anti-avoidance rule (GAAR), at a high level, the GAAR disallows a tax advantage which has arisen as a result of a tax avoidance transaction. It does this by providing that regard should be had to the substance of the transaction, rather than just its legal form. This means that, for example, where artificial steps are put into a transaction with the intent of reducing the tax arising, those artificial steps are ignored. It is designed to counteract transactions which have little or no commercial reality and are carried out primarily to create an artificial tax benefit.
The GAAR is provided for in section 811C TCA and operates by providing that a taxpayer is not entitled to a tax advantage arising out of a tax avoidance transaction. In addition, if Revenue believes that a taxpayer has participated in a tax avoidance transaction, there is no time limit on when Revenue can carry out enquiries as to whether or not the transaction is tax avoidance, withdraw the tax advantage by amending an assessment and collect or recover any amount of tax.
The question as to whether a tax advantage has arisen out of a tax avoidance transaction is a matter of fact, based on the specific circumstances of a case.
Fiscal Policy
Questions (48)
Pearse Doherty
Question:48. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the amount if any of the Future Ireland Fund and the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund are invested In Irish sovereign or quasi sovereign debt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21493/25]
View answerWritten answers
I am informed by the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) that the Future Ireland Fund and the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund are not currently invested in Irish sovereign or Irish quasi-sovereign debt.
Tax Data
Questions (49, 50, 51)
Pearse Doherty
Question:49. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the list of all houses and gardens that are available to the public for viewing as a condition of their exemption from capital acquisitions tax; the list of all property other than houses or gardens that are available to the public for viewing as a condition of their exemption from capital acquisitions tax, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21494/25]
View answerPearse Doherty
Question:50. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the information and documentation required to apply for an exemption to the capital acquisitions tax on the basis of heritage; the total number of times a capital acquisitions tax on the basis of heritage was withdrawn due to failure to provide reasonable viewing facilities to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21495/25]
View answerPearse Doherty
Question:51. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 184 of 27 March 2025, the way in which the obligation to maintain taxpayer confidentiality is compatible in the case of heritage based exemptions given requirement for the public to be aware of and able to view the heritage item to avail of the tax exemption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21496/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 to 51, inclusive, together.
I am advised by Revenue that the Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT) heritage-based exemptions that the Deputy is referring to include, as part of their eligibility conditions, a requirement that “reasonable facilities for viewing” are provided in respect of the heritage object, or heritage house or garden, as the case may be.
In the case of a heritage object, which includes pictures, prints, books, manuscripts, works of art, jewellery or scientific collections that are of national, scientific, historic or artistic interest, reasonable facilities for viewing must be allowed to members of the public or to recognised bodies or associations of persons.
In the case of a heritage house or garden, reasonable facilities for viewing must be allowed to members of the public. Furthermore, particulars of the house or garden including its name (if any), address, the days, and times it is open to the public, and any price payable for public access must be provided to Fáilte Ireland before 1 January in any year reasonable public access is required for the purposes of the exemption.
A person claiming the CAT heritage exemption in respect of a gift or inheritance is required to file a CAT return in order to make the claim. No specific information or documentation is required to be submitted to Revenue when making a claim but any relevant information and documentation should be retained by the taxpayer as it may be requested by Revenue for verification purposes at a later date.
As noted, the CAT legislation requires Fáilte Ireland to be provided with certain particulars in relation to the house or garden concerned. However, the legislation does not specifically permit Fáilte Ireland (or another body) to publish the information received. I am advised by Revenue that it is precluded from the disclosure of such information due to its obligation to maintain taxpayer confidentiality in accordance with Section 851A Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997.
In relation to the Deputy’s question as to the total number of times a CAT heritage exemption was withdrawn due to failure to provide reasonable viewing facilities to the public, I am advised by Revenue that this information is not currently available.
It may be helpful to note that a taxpayer may claim relief from income tax or corporation tax in respect of expenditure on approved buildings and/or approved gardens under section 482 TCA 1997. In order to claim the relief the Revenue Commissioners must be satisfied that reasonable access to the building is afforded to the public, or that the building is in use as a tourist accommodation facility for at least 6 months in any calendar year. In accordance with legislation, the reasonable access requirements and details relating to that access are required to be publicised annually. In the case of tourist accommodation, it must be registered as a guest house and a list must be published annually. Taxpayers are reminded on the annual registration form of the details to be published on the Revenue and Fáilte Ireland websites. Revenue publishes a list of approved buildings/gardens on the Revenue website at: www.revenue.ie/en/personal-tax-credits-reliefs-and-exemptions/documents/section-482-heritage-properties.pdf.
Question No. 50 answered with Question No. 49.
Question No. 51 answered with Question No. 49.
Office of Public Works
Questions (52)
Darren O'Rourke
Question:52. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the number of WTE qualified horticulturists, by grade employed by OPW as of 22 April 2025; and if he will provide same figures as of 31 December 2022, in tabular form. [21318/25]
View answerWritten answers
The number of qualified horticulturists employed by the OPW is set out in the table below:
|
OPW Gardener Grade (22 April 2025) |
Number |
|
Craft Gardener |
47 |
|
Chargehand Gardener (Head Gardener) |
18 |
|
Craft Foreperson (Horticultural) |
6 |
|
Foreperson Grade 1 (Horticultural) |
2 |
|
Total |
73 |
|
OPW Gardener Grade (31 Dec 2022) |
Number |
|
Craft Gardener |
52 |
|
Chargehand Gardener (Head Gardener) |
24 |
|
Craft Foreperson (Horticultural) |
7 |
|
Foreperson Grade 1 (Horticultural) |
3 |
|
Total |
86 |
There is currently a competition to fill 6 x Chargehand (Head) Gardener vacancies with interviews scheduled for mid-May. There is a further Craft Gardener competition which will be launched following successful completion of the Chargehand Gardener competition when the accurate number of backfills and vacancies have been identified.
Office of Public Works
Questions (53)
Alan Kelly
Question:53. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the percentage of the capital budget of the OPW that has been spent in the first four months of 2025; If he will provide the same figures for the corresponding period in the years of 2023 and 2024, in tabular form. [21461/25]
View answerWritten answers
Please see below OPW budget, spend to end of April and associated percentage of the capital budget spent in the first four months of 2023, 2024 and up to 28th April 2025. (Note that the budget figure below consists of the REV plus any supplementary and carryovers as applicable for each relevant year).
Cycling Facilities
Questions (54)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:54. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to provide an update on the proposed walking and cycling bridge across the River Liffey from the War Memorial Gardens, Islandbridge to the Phoenix Park; the proposed timeline for works to commence; what funding is provided for this in 2025 and 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21669/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Office of Public Works has received tenders for the construction of the new commemorative bridge and entrance plaza at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens and Conyngham Road.
The proposed works for the Commemorative Bridge comprises of the following:
• A new pedestrian and cycle bridge which will span the River Liffey and connect to an existing cycle way running along Chapelizod Road;
• A formal entrance at Chapelizod Road;
• An open plaza linking the entrance and bridge, to be located at the War Memorial Gardens and at lands to north of River Liffey, Chapelizod Road, Islandbridge, Dublin 8. In order to ensure the safe passage of pedestrians and cyclists across the Chapelizod Road to and from the proposed open plaza, a new pedestrian crossing will be required. The Irish National War Memorial Gardens are located at a place of great historical, cultural and geographic importance.
The procurement process to identify a contractor is nearing completion. It is anticipated, subject to necessary approvals, that the contract for the construction of the bridge will be placed in May 2025.
The OPW will be funding this project with a 30% contribution of the total funding in principal from the National Transport Authority. It is expected 40% of the project payments will be made in 2025, 50% in 2026 with 10% final payment in 2027 once the one year defect period is complete.
Cycling Facilities
Questions (55)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:55. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform for an update on any plans to alter cycling facilities along Chesterfield Avenue in the Phoenix Park; the proposed timeline for any such works to commence; what funding is provided for this in 2025 and 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21670/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Office of Public Works is working with the National Transport Authority and Dublin City Council to advance plans for permanent segregated cycle lanes and pedestrian crossing points along Chesterfield Avenue in the Phoenix Park.
The project is in the pre-planning stage and work is ongoing on the design of the scheme with a view to submitting the appropriate applications for planning and consents.
This project will be delivered by DCC. It is anticipated that the planning application will be lodged during Q3/Q4 of this year.
National Parks
Questions (56)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:56. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the status of the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study and his plans for its implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21671/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, published in 2021, was based on the overarching principles of the Park being for people to enjoy its amenities and attractions, that the biodiversity and landscape fabric of the Park must be protected, that sustainable access will be encouraged and to base decisions on evidence while liaising with a wide range of interested parties.
My officials have progressed much of the actions outlined in the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, Post Consultation Report, since its adoption.
A Steering Group has been established which is comprised of the CEO's of Fingal County Council, Dublin City Council (DCC), the National Transport Authority and the Chairman of the Office of Public Works (OPW). The steering group is working to ensure a coherent framework for the implementation of appropriate transport and mobility solutions in the Park that connect with wider policy objectives, strategic initiatives and overall management of this part of the City.
As recommended in the report, a 30 kilometre per hour speed limit was introduced. There are signs and road markings advising motorists of the speed limit on entry to the park and at key locations throughout.
In October 2023, the 99 Dublin Bus route commenced which links Heuston Station with the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. There are a number of stops along the route at key destinations such as Dublin Zoo and Áras an Uachtaráin. A one-way system on the North Road between Cabra Gate and Garda Headquarters, allowing a contraflow cycle lane, was made permanent after a successful 9-month pilot programme. The cul-de-sac of the Upper Glen Road has also been permanently implemented.
To improve active travel, over 10 kilometres of footpaths and cycle lanes in the Phoenix Park have been upgraded since the publishing of the Transport and Mobility Options Study allowing for greater mobility and access across the park. In 2024, the OPW introduced age-friendly car parking spaces and has plans for an increase in the number of age-friendly and accessible parking spaces in 2025.
My officials are working with Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority on a permanent scheme of segregated cycle-lands on Chesterfield Avenue. The new layout will is sensitive to the heritage of the Park and incorporates pedestrian crossings, segregated cycle lanes and pedestrian and cyclist priority at junctions and roundabouts. It is envisaged that these plans will progress to planning in Q3 2025.
The report also recommended the development of a Parking Strategy for the Park. The was commissioned by the OPW and a public consultation process was completed. It is anticipated that the report will be published in the near future.
Work Permits
Questions (57)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:57. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the average wait time a work permit applicant must endure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21400/25]
View answerWritten answers
My Department has made significant progress in recent years in improving the employment permits processing system to address increasing demand. The average current wait time in respect of a new employment permit is between 1-2 weeks. From time to time certain applications can require additional checks and this can lead to an unavoidable delay.
This week, Minister Burke and I welcomed the launch of a new employment permits processing system, Employment Permits Online. This new cloud-based system replaces older technologies and will transform the way in which employment permits are submitted, processed and issued.
By introducing a portal space with individual online accounts for both employers and employees, it will be easier for users to get up-to-date information on their applications. It will also provide users with more ownership over their accounts.
The new employment permit system will make the application process easier, more secure, more intuitive and in so doing will reduce inaccuracies in the submission of applications, resulting in a more streamlined processing experience.
My Department has published relevant information (including video guides, an FAQ and a recorded webinar) highlighting some new features and additional functionality. This material is available at enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/workplace-and-skills/employment-permits/latest-updates/new-eps/.
Processing times are updated weekly on the Department's website at enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/workplace-and-skills/employment-permits/current-application-processing-dates/.
Enterprise Policy
Questions (58)
Willie O'Dea
Question:58. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new mid-west regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21428/25]
View answerWritten answers
Balanced regional development is a Government priority; a central component of the White Paper on Enterprise 2022-2030 is to support balanced regional enterprise development. My Department and its agencies contribute to this agenda in several ways, including through the nine Regional Enterprise Plans (REPs). These are bottom-up plans developed and led by regional stakeholders, which focus on collaborative initiatives to strengthen the enterprise ecosystem in each region.
As mentioned in response to a parliamentary question during the 20 February 2025 session, with agreement from the Regional Enterprise Plan National Oversight Group at its meeting of 25 April 2024, the current REPs have been extended for one year to end 2025. This extension provides an additional year for continued implementation of the current plans and time to consider the best approach to the development of successor plans throughout 2025.
There is a clear commitment in the new Programme for Government to publish and resource new Regional Enterprise Plans. Before we develop these new plans, I would like to assess our approach to date, set a clear framework for the future and engage all of the relevant stakeholders in each region.
An independent review of the Regional Enterprise Plan initiative is currently underway. The review began in January 2025 and the final report will be delivered in Q2 2025. A steering group has been established to oversee the review.
A Regional Enterprise Policy Statement is to be drafted in parallel and finalised after the review of the REP initiative. This statement intends to more clearly link the REPs with existing policies and initiatives; it will set out the framework and strategic agenda for future regional enterprise development.
Following publication of the policy statement in the second half of this year, attention will then turn to development of the next set of REPs. A defined process, taking account of the REP review results and policy statement, and involving consultation with regional stakeholders, will be conducted in each region. This process should lead to formulation of new Regional Enterprise Plans ready for launch in early 2026.
Industrial Development
Questions (59)
Willie O'Dea
Question:59. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs in IDA supported companies in Limerick at the end of March 2025 and the number in Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21429/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Mid-West Region comprises counties Limerick, Clare, and Tipperary. There are a total of 153 IDA client companies in this Region, employing 27,968 people. County Limerick has 74 client companies employing 16,068 people and County Clare has 62 client companies employing 6,041 people.
Recent announcements include the North American Bancard opening of a new R&I Centre of Excellence in Limerick city in June 2024 announcing the creation of 54 jobs, and in September 2024, Whoop announced the official opening of its new offices in Limerick. Also, on 12 September 2024, Eli Lilly and Company announced a $1 billion expansion of its Limerick manufacturing site. Meanwhile, on 19 July 2024, Beckman Coulter Diagnostics in East Clare announced a €10 million investment that underscores its commitment to innovation and growth in the region, with the company actively hiring to fill 50 open roles and having announced 30 additional jobs arising from that investment to be recruited between 2025 and 2027.
The FDI performance in the region has been positive over the past five years with employment among IDA clients increasing by 16%. The Mid-West has a significant ecosystem of well-established companies across Technology, Life Sciences, International Financial Services and Engineering & Industrial Technologies. Key IDA client companies in the region include Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Analog Devices, Dell, Eli Lilly, Fiserv, Jaguar Land Rover, JnJ Vision, Meira GTx, Northern Trust and Regeneron.
In summary, employment in IDA companies in County Kerry and County Clare in 2024 - the latest available data - is:
|
County |
No. of companies |
Total Employment |
|
Limerick |
74 |
16,068 |
|
Clare |
62 |
6,041 |
Source: Annual Employment Survey 2024
Industrial Development
Questions (60)
Naoise Ó Cearúil
Question:60. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to outline the strategies being pursued to protect and strengthen Ireland's competitiveness, in light of escalating U.S. tariffs. [20972/25]
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In 2024, Ireland was ranked as the 4th most competitive country in the World in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings. Indeed, Ireland currently holds a strong competitive position globally, and this performance is underpinned by several key factors, including a highly skilled workforce, strong economic growth, and success in attracting foreign direct investment in high-value sectors. Ireland has also enjoyed exceptionally strong economic performance in recent years. Employment is at record levels. However, the international context is rapidly changing, and we recognise that many businesses, whether indigenous or FDI, are facing increased challenges, including on the cost of doing business.
The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) has outlined the challenges to Ireland’s competitiveness and productivity over the medium term and the policy responses required to meet them in its latest annual report – Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge 2024. In an evolving geopolitical landscape, the focus must be placed on addressing those challenges that are within our sphere of influence.
The introduction of tariffs by the US administration on imports from the EU presents a significant economic challenge for Ireland. Ireland remains committed to the principles of free and open trade, which have underpinned our economic success. Open trade brings economic opportunities, creates well-paid jobs and fosters innovation. It also builds economic resilience within a strong rules-based international trading system.
The Government appreciates that this is a worrying time for many businesses, particularly those with goods at sea, with the ultimate impact of the US decision to impose tariffs on imports from the EU remaining unclear.
In recognition of these challenges facing Ireland, the Government has accelerated the timeline for the delivery of a new whole of Government Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity. A draft of the Plan will be considered by Ministers at a Competitiveness Summit this July and published as soon as possible thereafter. This plan will cover industrial policy, reducing the cost and regulatory burden on business, investing in infrastructure, digital regulation and reform, energy reform, international trade and research and development, and innovation.
Over the coming weeks, the NCPC will finalise its Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge 2025 report. This work will feed into the development of the Action Plan. The Action Plan will be evidence based, and will be underpinned by consultations by my Department with other Government Departments and stakeholders, as well as by research and analysis. These consultations are already underway. Given the heightened level of international uncertainty, most if not all of which is outside of our control, the overarching objective of the Action Plan will be to focus on matters within our control by way of policy changes which can make the Irish economy more competitive and resilient to economic shocks.
Low Pay
Questions (61)
Pearse Doherty
Question:61. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to outline any plans to remove sub minimum wages and any economic impact assessment that has been carried; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21465/25]
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The National Minimum Wage Acts allow for lower, or sub-minimum rates of the minimum wage for those employees aged under 20. Those aged less than 18 years can be paid 70 per cent of the full minimum wage rate, while those aged 18 years and 19 years can be paid 80 and 90 per cent of the full rate, respectively.
As the deputy is aware, the Low Pay Commission recommended the abolition of sub-minimum rates in March 2024.
The Low Pay Commission highlighted in its report that this is a complex issue. They have said Government will need to give their findings and recommendations detailed consideration and deliberation.
The recommendations were accompanied by a research report by the ESRI. While this study provides valuable information on the incidence and characteristics of sub-minimum employment in Ireland, during 2022, it stops short of modelling the impact of making changes to youth rates.
My Department has commissioned an economic impact assessment of the Commission’s recommendations.
The economic impact assessment will provide us with more up-to-date data on the use of sub-minimum rates and will independently evaluate the economic impact of possible changes to the sub-minimum wage regime in Ireland by:
• Modelling the impact of making changes to youth rates on firms of different size and in different sectors and regions, and
• Examining any potential unintended impacts of making changes to youth rates, such as increased unemployment of younger workers and the possibility of young people exiting formal education in favour of entering the workforce.
The results of the economic impact assessment are due this summer.
This is a complex and nuanced issue, but this Government is committed to fair and sustainable wages for all workers. The National Minimum Wage increased to €13.50 per hour on 1st January, an increase of over 6% which is ahead of projected wage growth across the economy.
The current system of youth rates is based on a percentage of the full minimum wage; when the minimum wage increases, these sub-minimum rates also increase, with young people in receipt of these rates seeing a commensurate increase in their wages.
Recent significant increases in the minimum wage show Government’s continuing commitment to fair wages for the lowest paid workers in our economy, but it is also important to acknowledge the challenges the enterprise sector has faced over the last number of years.
We know that the use of sub-minimum youth rates is largely concentrated in the accommodation, food, and retail sectors, and that these are sectors that have reported facing considerable cost pressures.
Government recently approved the acceleration of the development of a new whole-of-government Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, alongside a suite of immediate measures designed to bolster business resilience and support competitiveness.
As part of the immediate measures designed to bolster business resilience and support competitiveness Government has agreed to defer any decision on sub-minimum youth rates of the National Minimum Wage.
It is important that we give this issue the full care and deliberation it requires, and to not rush into a decision that could have unintended consequences, for young people, for employers, and considering the current economic uncertainties, it is important to proceed with caution to allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape.