Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 May 2025
209. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the engagement he has had with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in relation to diversifying our economy, with particular regard to the development of indigenous industries and the identification of markets for our goods and services outside of the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16471/25]
View answerThe Government is committed to helping Irish companies to navigate the evolving trade landscape and mitigate tariff impacts, working with our dedicated export agency, Enterprise Ireland, to provide resources, guidance, and strategic supports. Enterprise Ireland has established a Trade & Tariff Response Team to brief Irish exporters on the latest developments and impacts and to date has engaged on a one-to-one basis with over 450 companies who export to the USA.
Enterprise Ireland will support Irish exporters as they continue to explore potential mitigation strategies to navigate these challenges, and to assess what opportunities may arise. Among the supports on offer are the Strategic Consultancy Grant which offers support to companies to hire external experts to assist companies in tackling strategic or short-term challenges in key business functions such as customs and supply chain impacts and the Market Discovery fund which provides a grant of up to €150,000 to assist companies develop new markets.
In addition to these targeted supports, Enterprise Ireland also offers support tailored to the needs of SMEs, ensuring they have access to the financial resources required to sustain and grow their businesses.
I am conscious that this is an evolving situation which will be closely monitored. My Department will continue to work with the enterprise agencies to support SMEs as the backbone of our economy and to provide them with the resources and support they need to thrive in a challenging economic environment.
