Martin Daly
Question:31. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new western regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21734/25]
View answerRegional Development
Questions (31, 44, 56, 61, 65, 69, 79)
Willie O'Dea
Question:44. 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. [21533/25]
View answer
Aisling Dempsey
Question:56. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new mid-east regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21402/25]
View answer
Erin McGreehan
Question:61. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new north east regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21719/25]
View answer
Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Question:65. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new south east regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21405/25]
View answer
John Lahart
Question:69. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new Dublin Regional Enterprise Plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21584/25]
View answer
Michael Cahill
Question:79. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a new south west regional enterprise plan will be published soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21416/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31, 44, 56, 61, 65, 69 and 79 together.
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.
Business Supports
Questions (32)
Peadar Tóibín
Question:32. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has considered setting up a rainy day fund which may be used in the event of a trade war to support struggling businesses. [20965/25]
View answerWritten answers
The 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.
Similarly, my Department is engaging with IDA Ireland to shape the Government's strategic response to US tariffs. IDA’s priority is to maintain close partnerships with existing client companies while monitoring developments, assessing impacts, and providing insights to inform Ireland’s overall response. This engagement has informed IDA’s 2025-29 strategy, "Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation," which focuses on productivity-enhancing investments in RD&I, talent development, sustainability, and digitalisation.
These ambitions align well with the Programme for Government's commitment to develop a comprehensive Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity, which I have tasked my Department with delivering in an accelerated timeframe. This plan includes immediate, targeted measures, focusing on enhancing international trade promotion supports, addressing business costs, and improving energy security and infrastructure. Key actions include implementing advisory supports for exporters, accelerating progress on trade agreements like CETA, developing a strategic approach to market diversification, streamlining security clearance processes, and advancing a National Semiconductor Strategy.
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 Irish based enterprises to thrive in this challenging economic environment.
Departmental Policies
Questions (33)
Mattie McGrath
Question:33. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures he is taking to minimise the damage of potential US tariffs. [16672/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is committed to helping Irish companies navigate the evolving trade landscape and mitigate tariff effects, working with 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.
Similarly, my Department is engaging with IDA Ireland to shape the Government's strategic response to US tariffs. IDA’s priority is to maintain close partnerships with existing client companies while monitoring developments, assessing impacts, and providing insights to inform Ireland’s overall response. This engagement has informed IDA’s 2025-29 strategy, "Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation," which focuses on productivity-enhancing investments in RD&I, talent development, sustainability, and digitalisation.
These ambitions align well with the Programme for Government's commitment to develop a comprehensive Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity, which I have tasked my Department with delivering in an accelerated timeframe. This plan includes immediate, targeted measures, focusing on enhancing international trade promotion supports, addressing business costs, and improving energy security and infrastructure. Key actions include implementing advisory supports for exporters, accelerating progress on trade agreements like CETA, developing a strategic approach to market diversification, streamlining security clearance processes, and advancing a National Semiconductor Strategy.
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 Irish based enterprises to thrive in this challenging economic environment.
Employment Rights
Questions (34)
Micheál Carrigy
Question:34. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his view on the provision of statutory sick leave in Ireland compared with other European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21529/25]
View answerWritten answers
It is important to recognise that each country operates under different systems, making direct comparisons complex. Employer-paid statutory sick leave has only been in place in Ireland since 2023. My officials will keep the legislation under review to ensure it continues to be fit-for-purpose.
Ireland operates a so-called hybrid approach to statutory sick leave, combining an initial period of financial support from employers, followed by a move on to state benefits if the illness persists.
Employers pay sick leave for up to five working days of medically certified illness, after which the state-funded Illness Benefit, operated by the Department of Social Protection, steps in if the employee remains unfit to work.
Some EU countries, especially those in the Mediterranean, operate systems of social insurance for sick leave. While this can reduce the cost burden on employers, it may also involve short gaps in payment and varying levels of support depending on the fund’s resources.
Ireland’s statutory sick leave scheme provides for up to 70% of average earnings, capped at €110 per day. In other countries, the replacement rate can range from 25% to 100%, and the duration of payments can vary significantly. Some countries also taper sick leave payments, whereby the replacement rate decreases, or alternatively increases, over the course of the illness.
The Netherlands is an outlier, requiring employers to pay 70% of salary for up to two years. However, this is often supplemented by mandatory employer insurance policies.
Legislative Programme
Questions (35)
James O'Connor
Question:35. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the legislative priorities for his Department for 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21754/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Spring Legislative Programme was agreed by Government and published on the 18 February 2025. The Summer Legislative Programme has yet to be published. Of the 50 bills included for priority publication and drafting in the Spring Session, my Department is responsible for 5.
The following three Bills are included in the approved programme for priority publication in the Spring Session –
• The Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Bill 2025, which will introduce measures that allow, but do not compel, an employee to stay in employment until the state pension age;
• The Copyright and Related Rights (Amendment) Bill 2024, which encompasses the necessary amendments to the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000 addressing the matter of equitable remuneration as contained in a judgement delivered in September 2020 by the Court of Justice of the European Union and a subsequent High Court judgement, delivered in February 2021; and
• The Protection of Employees (Employers’ Insolvency) Amendment ) Bill which updates the legislation governing the protection of employees during their employers’ insolvency. It will incorporate technical amendment to improve the operation of the Act as well as addressing a relevant Supreme Court Judgement.
Included in Government’s approved list of legislation for priority drafting in the Spring Session are two pieces of legislation under the responsibility of my Department, as follows:
• The Data Bill 2025 will put in place the domestic legislative underpinning for enforcement of the EU Data Act. Its overarching purpose is to support innovation and economic growth by creating a harmonised framework on fair access and use of data and providing clarification on who can create value from data, and under which conditions; and
• The Co-operative Societies Bill which aims to place the co-operative model on a more favourable and clearer legal basis, thereby creating a level playing field with companies and encouraging the consideration of the cooperative model as an attractive formation option for entrepreneurs.
The Microenterprise Loan Fund (Amendment) Bill was restored to the Order Paper to be taken at Seanad Second Stage, having passed all stages in the Dáil. This legislation provides for ownership of Microfinance Ireland (MFI) to pass to the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and to put in place the related governance structures.
Other legislation being progressed by my Department include the Industrial Development (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, the Miscellaneous Provisions (Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names) Bill 2024, the Registration of Trade Unions Bill and the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill.
Departmental Schemes
Questions (36)
Ryan O'Meara
Question:36. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will review the criteria for the power up scheme given that some applicants were excluded on minor technicalities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21569/25]
View answerWritten answers
As I have previously outlined my Department is aware of issues that have arisen during the registration period, in relation to businesses that were ineligible for the grant due to incorrect classification of their business type while registering for the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) scheme. My Department has reviewed these issues and consulted with the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and with the local authorities.
In order to address this, we are now proposing to open an appeals process that will give those businesses in the retail, hospitality and beauty sectors that were not eligible for ICOB and the Power Up grant because of the misclassification issue, an opportunity to register for those grants.
This is not a re-opening of those grant schemes, rather this is designed to allow those who originally misclassified their business sector an opportunity to register for the grants.
It is intended to open the appeals process as soon as possible following discussions with the local authorities who previously administered both the ICOB and Power Up grant schemes on behalf of my Department.
Business Supports
Questions (37)
Grace Boland
Question:37. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the input his Department had in the development of the business energy upgrade scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21240/25]
View answerWritten answers
As I mentioned in response to the Deputy’s related parliamentary question (21239/25), my Department and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications along with its agency, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) work very closely on an ongoing basis across a range of shared climate objectives around decarbonisation and the use of sustainable energies.
I welcomed the introduction of the SEAI’s Business Energy Upgrades Scheme, because as the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, I hold responsibility for ensuring that emissions in the Commercial Built Environment are reduced in line with Climate Action Plan targets. Achieving these targets will mean that many owners of commercial properties will have to carry out energy upgrade works to their buildings.
Such works can include installing smart meters, and replacing gas and oil heating with a heat-pump system. Doing so will require investment, but this Scheme is designed to meet some of the upfront costs of that work. It also provides rapid grant aid options for businesses at varying rates:
• They can get up to 30% support for a range of energy upgrade measures;
• And up to 50% support to optimise existing systems and support retrofit design costs.
I’m pleased that there has been a strong uptake of the Scheme since it opened for applications. There are over 200 draft applications in progress, and 78 offers have been made to date, to a value of €1.82 million.
The Scheme is funded from the Climate Action Fund and offers up to €120,000 for a series of common building upgrade measures including pumps, solar thermal, automatic controls, heat pumps, ventilation and wall insulation. The applications received are for all the potential measures offered under the Scheme.
I would encourage more businesses to consider the Scheme, because by cutting their energy costs they will become more competitive. They will also be less prone to the types of energy shocks we’ve seen in recent years. More broadly it makes commercial sense for building owners to improve their properties.
Research and Development
Questions (38)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:38. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment how his Department and relevant State agencies continue to partner with a company (details supplied) in areas of research and innovation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21545/25]
View answerWritten answers
Established in 1968, Intel is one of the world’s largest semiconductor companies. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and employing over 110,000 people worldwide, the company is one of the leading micro-electronic companies in the world. The company designs, manufactures, and sells microprocessors for computers, smartphones, and tablets, as well as embedded semiconductors for the industrial, medical, and automotive markets.Intel is a significant employer in Ireland. with Ireland being Intel’s centre of manufacturing excellence in Europe. The company has invested over €30 billion in Ireland since it first established. The company’s presence in Ireland since 1989 has helped to transform Ireland’s value proposition into a leading global location for major multinational capital investments at scale.
My Department, through IDA Ireland, continues to engage dynamically with Intel in a number of areas, including research, development and innovation and the IDA worked closely with Intel on the development of the recent €17 billion Fab 34 investment.
In line with the IDA Ireland strategy, Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation 2025-2029, IDA Ireland is seeking to strengthen long-term investment, maximise regional opportunities and scale cutting edge innovation, including with companies such as Intel, and others across its 1,800+ client base, many being the leading companies in their respective fields globally. Furthermore, the new IDA Strategy has identified Semiconductors as well as AI & Digital, Sustainability and Health as four key sectors where Ireland is committed to maintaining current investments as well as landing new ones.
IDA Ireland has been working with Intel in recent years to expand the company’s RD&I footprint, including engaging and collaborating with Irish and European institutions through the Horizon Europe, a key funding programme for research and innovation in Europe, as well as supporting the company to develop and implement new sustainable work practices. IDA Ireland and other relevant state agencies will continue to engage and work with Intel on developing the company’s innovation footprint in Ireland as the company navigates its current challenges.
Finally, I should add that the forthcoming National Semiconductor Strategy, which I will formally launch later this month, will include further commitments for the sector on RD&I, Skills & Talent and International Co-operation that will all be of value to Intel in Ireland.
Departmental Strategies
Questions (39)
Joe Neville
Question:39. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when it is envisaged that a new whole-of-Government action plan on competitiveness and productivity will be finalised in line with the Programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21741/25]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland currently holds a strong competitive position globally. This performance is reflected in our exceptionally strong economic performance in recent years. However, the international context is rapidly changing, and we recognise that many businesses, whether indigenous or FDI, are facing increased challenges.
In recognition of these challenges facing Ireland, the current Programme for Government committed to the publication of a new whole of Government Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity by January 2026. The Government has, however, accelerated this timeline, with a draft of the Plan to be considered by Ministers at a Competitiveness Summit this July. 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 National Competitiveness and Productivity Council will finalise and submit its Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge 2025 report to Government. This work will feed into the development of the Action Plan. Alongside this, my Department is undertaking consultation with stakeholders including other Government Departments to ensure that the Action Plan is evidence based and reflects the issues impacting Ireland’s competitiveness.
Given the heightened level of international uncertainty, 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 domestic Irish economy more competitive and resilient to economic shocks.
Trade Unions
Questions (40)
Sinéad Gibney
Question:40. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps his Department is taking to strengthen protections for employees from victimisation due to trade union activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21701/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Government continues to fully support the right of any worker to join and be active in their trade union. Employees have the right under the Constitution to form associations and trade unions. Under Irish legislation, an employee cannot be discriminated against or dismissed because they are a member of a trade union.
The Unfair Dismissal Acts provide for a number of grounds under which a dismissal may be considered unfair, including membership or proposed membership of a trade union or engaging in trade union activities, whether within permitted times during work or outside of working hours. Where an employee has been unfairly dismissed, an adjudication officer and, on appeal, the Labour Court may make an order for the reinstatement, re-engagement or awarding of compensation to the employee.
Additionally, the Workplace Relations Commission’s Code of Practice on Victimisation refers specifically to victimisation arising from an employee’s membership or non-membership, activity or non-activity on behalf of a trade union, in specific circumstances, including situations where there are no negotiating arrangements and where collective bargaining has not taken place. A complaint under the Code may be made to the Workplace Relations Commission under the Industrial Relations (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004, providing for up to 2 years remuneration in compensation.
Any further changes to the law in this area will be considered in the context of the development of Ireland’s Action Plan on collective bargaining, as required by Article 4 of the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages. The Programme for Government commits to publishing the Action Plan by the end of 2025. My Department has launched a public consultation on the Action Plan which includes a question on protections against victimisation on the grounds of trade union membership, and is available to the public here: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/consultations/consultation-on-irelands-action-plan-on-the-promotion-of-collective-bargaining.html.
Employment Rights
Questions (41)
Paul Murphy
Question:41. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the lobbying that has taken place from business interests regarding delaying the introduction of a living wage and additional sick leave; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21248/25]
View answerWritten answers
In my role as Minister of State for Small Business and Retail at the Department for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, I regularly engage with business representative groups, employers, trade unions and the public through various fora including the Enterprise Forum, the Retail Forum and the Labour Employer Economic Forum and its subgroup on Employment and Enterprise. These platforms aim to ensure that the department’s policies and initiatives are informed by the needs and perspectives of the business community and other stakeholders.
Business owners and representative organisations, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors, have consistently raised concerns about the cumulative impact of regulatory measures such as statutory sick leave and the transition to a living wage.
Statutory sick leave was developed in consultation with all relevant stakeholders, including unions, employer groups, and other Government Departments. It is a valuable public health measure than can reduce the risk of workplace accidents and the likelihood of infectious disease transmission in the workplace. Five days’ sick leave strikes the right balance. It gives workers income protection, and, if they remain unfit to work, Illness Benefit is there to support them.
There was also a significant uplift of 12% (€1.40) in the minimum wage in 2024 and an increase of over 6% (€0.80) in 2025. These recent increases were well ahead of inflation and wages and have brought about substantial real wage growth for the lowest paid workers in our economy. The Government is committed to fair wages for all workers and remains committed to the introduction of a Living Wage during its term. We are committed to the progression to a living wage, but it is important that we do so in a way that does not threaten employment or competitiveness. We will seek to find a balance between a fair and sustainable rate for low-paid workers and one that will not have significant negative consequences for employers and competitiveness.
As the deputy will be aware, the Standards in Public Office Commission is responsible for establishing and maintaining the Register of Lobbying and this register is available for members of the public to consult online at www.lobbying.ie.
Ticket Booking Fees
Questions (42)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:42. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to outline the current regulation and enforcement regime in place to ensure that major event ticket selling platforms operate in full compliance with Irish consumer protection law, particularly in relation to the transparency of dynamic pricing practices and the justification for service fees charged to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21294/25]
View answerWritten answers
Ireland has a strong track record when it comes to protecting consumers.
Primary online marketplaces provide a platform where event tickets can be purchased and are regulated by various pieces of legislation, some of which I will outline below. Primary tickets are allocated for sale to the platform by event partners, which includes, among others, event organisers, promoters, venues, artists/performers and agents.
Generally, traders in Ireland, including ticket sellers, are free to set and change their prices for goods and services, based on demand or other factors, once they do so independently and in line with consumer protection law. Consumer law requires traders to provide certain information to consumers prior to purchase. This includes the total price, inclusive of taxes and service fees, allowing consumers to make the informed choice in advance of the sale, whether to purchase or not.
Event partners determine the conditions around the sale, availability and release of the tickets. If they put in place a dynamic pricing model and comply with general consumer law, they are free to charge any price they wish.
Consumer law prohibits businesses from engaging in a misleading commercial practice. Under the Consumer Protection Act 2007, a commercial practice is regarded as misleading if the trader does not act in good faith and misleads the average consumer into taking an action that she/he may otherwise not undertake.
The Act also prohibits traders from making a false representation that a product is available only for a limited time, or on particular terms for a limited time, in order to elicit an immediate decision from a consumer, depriving the consumer of sufficient opportunity or time to make an informed choice in relation to the trader’s product.
In addition, the Consumer Information (Advertisements for Concert or Theatre Performances) Order, 1997, regulates advertisements for concerts and theatre performances.
Consumer rights are further protected for purchasing tickets for concerts or sporting events under the Sale of Tickets (Cultural, Entertainment, Recreational and Sporting Events) Act 2021. The Act regulates the secondary ticket market which prohibits the sale or advertising for sale of tickets or ticket packages for a price exceeding their original sale price for events taking place in designated venues or for designated events.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the independent statutory body under the remit of my Department that enforces competition and consumer protection law. It continues to promote and monitor compliance with competition and consumer protection laws across all sectors of the market, and to investigate potential breaches, prohibited practices and offences.
If a consumer is of the view that a seller has acted in a manner contrary to the legislation, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission have advised my officials that they should complain to the seller in writing. Failing a satisfactory response, and where a consumer is at a financial loss, the Small Claims process may be an option for them.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission website provides further information on terms and conditions and on unfair terms, as provided for in the Consumer Rights Act 2022.
Cross-Border Co-operation
Questions (43)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Question:43. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for an update on any new all island enterprise initiatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21681/25]
View answerWritten answers
In February 2024, the Government announced €800 million for Shared Island priorities, including €30 million for the new Shared Island Enterprise Scheme. This scheme is a collaborative effort between InterTradeIreland, Invest Northern Ireland, and Enterprise Ireland, marking an unprecedented level of cooperation between these agencies. The scheme has three distinct thematic areas:
- Female Entrepreneurship: Eight pilot programs were launched in 2024 to support female entrepreneurs with innovative business concepts or growth aspirations. These pilots will be completed by June 2025 and have already shown significant interest, with over 700 expressions of interest for future engagement. Two pilots specifically for female researchers were oversubscribed, leading to plans for a full program for female researchers.
- Cross-Border Networks and Clusters: InterTradeIreland submitted a successful bid to host The Competitiveness Institute’s (TCI) Global Cluster Conference in October 2025. This event will be a key feature of the clustering theme, with a promotional campaign running from April to July 2025.
- Green Investment Projects: A €20 million All-Island Sustainability Capital Grant was launched in February 2025 to support businesses in decarbonising their operations. Eligible projects include heat electrification, green gases, onsite renewable energy, sustainable water, carbon capture, and circular economy initiatives. Projects must have a minimum capital spend of €6 million and demonstrate significant value and environmental improvement.
Further to this in January 2025, the Irish Government committed an additional €1 billion to the Shared Island Fund, extending its scope to 2035. This funding aims to foster reconciliation, mutual respect, and growth across the island. My Department is evaluating potential projects for future funding and will continue to collaborate closely with the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy to maximize opportunities under the Shared Island Fund.
Question No. 44 answered with Question No. 31.
Vacant Properties
Questions (45)
Thomas Gould
Question:45. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the actions he is taking to address commercial vacancy. [21367/25]
View answerWritten answers
Government is committed to bringing forward measures to support small businesses in every region, county and town in Ireland.
While my Department does not fund schemes to address commercial vacancy, I understand that some local authorities have introduced locally designed business incentive schemes which promote the use of vacant commercial property.
These schemes are complementary to the work of the Local Enterprise Offices, which play an extremely important role at local level, providing their services direct to small businesses and promoting entrepreneurship across the country. As business units within each of the 31 Local Authorities, LEOs support the development of economic strategies such as the Local Economic and Community Plans and ensure that an enterprise perspective is brought to bear on various Local Authority and regional plans and frameworks. LEOs also act as a catalyst for economic development by driving collaboration with the broader enterprise ecosystem at the local level.
Small and Medium Enterprises
Questions (46, 52)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:46. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment what current supports are available to SMEs with the ongoing threat of increased tariffs when trading with the US; what additional supports are also being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21695/25]
View answer
William Aird
Question:52. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has examined with other Government colleagues the possible assistance that Irish SMEs would require given the impact on tariffs and other measures by other countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15188/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 52 together.
The Government is committed to assisting Irish companies navigate the evolving trade landscape and mitigate the effects of tariffs and we are working with our dedicated export agency, Enterprise Ireland, to provide the necessary resources, guidance, and strategic supports. Enterprise Ireland has established a Trade and Tariff Response Team to lead on this response, focused on ensuring Irish exporters are fully briefed on the latest developments and that they understand how this evolving situation may impact them now and in the future.
Enterprise Ireland is proactively engaging on a one-to-one basis with over 450 companies who export to the United States. Briefing, webinars and roundtable events for Irish exporters have been delivered by Enterprise Ireland in conjunction with international trade experts on preparing for tariffs; this occurred prior to any tariff announcements, on the announced tariff changes, and on recommended actions for companies.
Enterprise Ireland will continue to 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.
Energy Prices
Questions (47)
Peadar Tóibín
Question:47. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether his Department has undertaken any assessment of how electricity costs are impacting SMEs across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20964/25]
View answerWritten answers
I am acutely aware of the important role SMEs play in our economy, and the challenging cost environment in which many of them are operating, albeit that energy prices have fallen from their highs at the time of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. My Department closely monitors costs across our economy and assess appropriate policy mechanisms to ensure our businesses are competitive and resilient. This analysis is developed to inform policy in a number of ways, for example, through the work of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council.
While the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications is the lead department in terms of energy policy, my Department works closely with Minister O'Brien T.D., his officials, and energy sector stakeholders to ensure costs for businesses are appropriate and affordable.
The Programme for Government commits to “prioritise investment into our electricity grid to update our power generation systems to enhance security and affordability for consumers and businesses” and to “increase take-up of grants to support small businesses in adopting energy-efficient technologies, cutting costs, and reducing their environmental footprint.”
I know that high electricity costs put pressures on businesses, particularly small enterprises, those with tight margins and those particularly dependent on certain fuels. Our economy's competitiveness over the medium-term will in part depend on a diversified and cost-effective energy system. We must acknowledge that we have a widely spread and low-density population. This results in higher network and connection costs, such as in building, maintaining and operating our electricity grid. This is particularly significant as we undergo a very large investment in energy infrastructure to meet our renewable energy targets at a time of significant economic and population growth.
In this regard I supported and welcome the recent announcement that Minister O'Brien's department is to establish a cross-government Energy Affordability Taskforce to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. This will entail both short term measures in preparation for Budget 2026, in addition to more medium and longer-term measures. My officials and I will engage constructively with this work.
Businesses are playing an important and active role in diversifying our energy system, directly contributing to our energy transition and deployment of renewable generation. Many companies from SMEs to LEUs have deployed renewable energy generation, from solar panels on roofs to onshore wind turbines. I am encouraging all eligible SMEs to avail of the SEAI Business Energy Upgrades Scheme, which provides 'rapid approval' grants and supports SMEs to improve their energy efficiency and reduce costs. the Local Enterprise Offices are also providing generous Energy Efficiency Grants for small and micro businesses.
My Department remains active in supporting Irish enterprises experiencing high costs. The Increased Cost of Business Scheme (ICOB) and the Power Up Grant, administered by the Local Authorities on behalf of my Department, is one such intervention. In total over €400 million was paid out to businesses in 2024. The second ICOB payment and the Power Up grant specifically targeted the retail, hospitality and beauty sectors.
My Department and I continue to monitor the business environment, and in particular energy costs, and inform Government policy accordingly. In particular I expect that this analysis will feed into work underway across Government to prepare an action plan on competitiveness and productivity.
Business Supports
Questions (48)
Tony McCormack
Question:48. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will provide an update on the roll out of the power up and increased cost of business grant schemes, including the level of uptake by businesses in County Offaly; any plans to expand or adapt these supports to meet local enterprise needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21570/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Increased Cost of Business scheme was introduced in March 2024 and the Power Up grant was introduced in October 2024. Both schemes are now closed, however, in total, €400 million in grant aid was successfully paid to SMEs right across the country in 2024 under these grants.
Specifically in relation to County Offaly, 614 businesses registered for the Power Up grant, 608 businesses were approved and received payments to the value of €2.4 million.
In relation to the ICOB grant 1080 businesses received the first ICOB payment and 625 received a second payment, giving a total grant value of over €2.6m.
As I have previously outlined, my Department is aware of issues that have arisen during the registration period, in relation to businesses that were ineligible for the grant due to incorrect classification of their business type while registering for ICOB. In order to address this, we are now proposing to open an appeals process that will give those businesses in the retail, hospitality and beauty sectors that were not eligible for ICOB and the Power Up grant because of the misclassification issue, an opportunity to register for those grants. This is not a re-opening of those grant schemes, rather this is designed to allow those who originally misclassified their business sector an opportunity to register for the grants.
Small and Medium Enterprises
Questions (49)
Noel McCarthy
Question:49. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to outline the supports being provided by his Department to aid small and medium-sized businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21617/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is committed to backing small and medium businesses and will continue to work closely with small businesses through our enterprise development agencies to support their growth, help them to find new markets, create jobs and take on the twin challenges of decarbonisation and digitalisation.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), located within the 31 Local Authorities, have a key role to play in this as the first stop shop for small businesses in Ireland. The LEOs promote entrepreneurship, foster business start-ups, develop small businesses, drive job creation and provide accessible high-quality supports for small businesses within their Local Authority areas.
The LEOs provide direct grant assistance to small businesses to assist them to start up and grow, with priority given to enterprises in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors who have the potential to develop into exporting entities. These grants are not available to domestically trading areas such as retail, personal services, professional services or construction.
However, LEOs also provide a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes, tailored to meet specific business requirements and can provide consultancy and grants to small businesses of all sectors, in the areas of Green, Digital and Lean. These supports are focused enhancing productivity and improving competitiveness in small businesses.
I would recommend that any small business owner contact their Local Enterprise Office and ask to speak to a Business Advisor about the supports available to them.
Enterprise Ireland is also committed to supporting the growth and development of small and medium-sized businesses in Ireland by providing financial assistance, expert advice, and tailored programs. The comprehensive range of supports available through Enterprise Ireland ensures that businesses have the resources and guidance they need to achieve their ambitions and contribute to Ireland's economic success.
Enterprise Ireland provides grants to assist small businesses with R&D, market expansion, and productivity improvements, while also offering equity investment in companies to helps them to scale their business and reach new markets globally.
Grant aided offers, like Grad Start and Key Manager Support, assist in attracting and developing talent within SMEs. While the Innovation Partnership Programme, offers funding for SMEs to collaborate with research institutions and develop innovative solutions and enhance their capability and competitiveness.
One of the key focuses of Enterprise Ireland is to assist Irish SMEs to access international markets. Initiatives like the Get Exporting Programme are available to help businesses enter and grow in international markets.
I also encourage any business owners looking to avail of government support to consult the National Enterprise Hub (NEH). The NEH is an all-of-government free service, staffed by expertly trained advisors and is focused on helping business owners access a range of government supports.
Company Closures
Questions (50)
Thomas Gould
Question:50. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of hospitality businesses that have closed in the past 12 months. [21368/25]
View answerWritten answers
The information requested is being compiled by the Companies Registration Office and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Company Registration
Questions (51)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:51. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if there is a backlog in compliance checks being carried out by the Companies Registration Office; any assessment that the Department has made of the potential reputational risk this poses to Ireland’s standing as a jurisdiction with low corruption, robust corporate oversight, and a secure regulatory environment for doing business internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21293/25]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset, it may be useful to give some sense of the scale of material dealt with by the Companies Registration Office (CRO). At present, details are held on over 300,000 companies, more than 600,000 business names and the beneficial ownership records of over 280,000 entities, in addition to details on smaller numbers of limited partnerships, trade unions, industrial and provident societies and friendly societies. During 2024, the CRO dealt with over 560,000 submissions, over 95% of which were submitted online.
The CRO operates a good faith register and the long-standing policy of the CRO has been to accept the bona fides of those filing documentation. However, it is important to emphasise that the provision of false information to the CRO is a criminal offence under the Companies Act 2014 and is subject to prosecution by the Corporate Enforcement Authority.
The CRO does, however, undertake checks to ensure that all necessary documents have been provided and have been appropriately completed and signed. The CRO has developed a Risk-Based Integrity Checking Process for applications for incorporation and notifications of appointment of directors. The CRO actively follows-up on issues arising and makes referrals, where appropriate, to the Corporate Enforcement Authority. The CRO also liaises with the Anti Money Laundering Compliance Unit of the Department of Justice where concerns arise regarding those entities who provide company secretarial services to companies, so called trust and company service providers (TCSPs). Since June of 2023 the CRO has collected the PPS numbers of directors when companies are being incorporated or when changes of directors are notified by the company. The PPS numbers of directors are also collected when a company files its annual returns. The collection of PPS numbers is an important tool for validating the identity of those who have been appointed as directors.
There are no significant backlogs in the various checks being carried out by the CRO. For example, new company registrations have a target of 5 working days for Fe Phrainn applications and 10 working days for ordinary online applications. While these targets may slip from time to time due to high volumes and staffing issues, the timeframes are currently being met.
The CRO continues to monitor companies for compliance with their statutory filing obligations and to enforce filing obligations under the Companies Act 2014. All Annual Returns filed late are subject to a late filing fees and the CRO received a total of €9.7m in late filing fees during 2024. Where appropriate, a company filing a late Annual Return also automatically loses its audit exemption. The CRO has recommenced involuntary strike off on a limited basis. The current focus is on companies who have no registered directors and will subsequently move on to companies who have failed to file annual returns and those who have failed to register beneficial ownership information with the Registrar of Beneficial Ownership.
Ireland has a reputation for being a well-regulated and business friendly country to establish and operate businesses and I am keen to ensure that this is maintained and even enhanced. Corporate law is kept under review on an ongoing basis and is updated / modernised, as required, most recently by the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Act 2024. This is in a context where we seek to maintain an appropriate balance where business can set up and operate without unnecessary or costly burdens but within an effective, proportionate and robust regulatory framework. This is particularly important in an Irish context where c. 95% of entries on the Companies Register are classified as SMEs.
Question No. 52 answered with Question No. 46.
Job Creation
Questions (53)
Michael Cahill
Question:53. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs in IDA supported companies in Kerry at the end of March 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21417/25]
View answerWritten answers
There are 2,070 people currently employed in Kerry, across 16 IDA-supported companies. Overall, there are 235 IDA client companies in the South-West Region, comprised of counties Cork and Kerry, employing 51,968 people. The FDI performance in the region has been positive over the past five years with employment among IDA clients increasing by 17%.
The South-West has a significant ecosystem of well-established companies across Technology, Life Sciences, International Financial Services and Engineering & Industrial Technologies. It has also won significant investment across all of these sectors over a sustained period which has contributed significantly to employment growth and positive economic impacts on other sectors of the economy.
Recent developments in Kerry include the commencement of construction by Astellas Ireland of its new €330 million, state-of-the-art facility at Kerry Technology Park, Tralee. May 2023, saw the launch of a major research partnership between Liebherr and LERO to further develop smart systems for the next generation of Container Cranes in Killarney, Co. Kerry.
A competitive property offering can be a key factor in investment decisions and is a core objective of IDA, delivered through its Regional Property Programme to support Foreign Direct Investment and the growth and expansion of indigenous clients of both Enterprise Ireland and Local Enterprise Office clients. Under its new strategy ‘Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation 2025-2029’, the IDA’s Regional Building Programme 2025+ will deliver 12 new buildings in total throughout the country as well as 11 Advance Planning Permits over the period to 2027, including a partnership with Kerry County Council for the delivery of an advance planning permit for an Advanced Technology Building in Tralee.
Artificial Intelligence
Questions (54)
Malcolm Byrne
Question:54. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment in light of the United Arab Emirates using artificial intelligence to assist in writing legislation, if his Department would consider a similar move; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21541/25]
View answerWritten answers
My Department first issued a policy document on the use of Generative AI to all staff in July 2023. That policy highlighted some of the potential areas where Generative AI can deliver efficiencies but also set out the risks of using such technologies and the mitigations that staff in the Department must adopt to avoid those risks. This was based on guidance received from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
The Department's original Generative AI Policy has recently been reviewed and an updated version has been issued to all staff which encourages and fosters greater use of Generative AI. Over the coming months my Department will explore and and scope specific use cases for the use of AI within the Department. While no specific use case for the drafting of legislation has yet been identified, the general principle of the Departments Generative AI Policy is that the technology can be used in most situations where it can improve the efficiency of the work and functions of the Department. General use cases include research, creating initial drafts or layouts for documents and supporting decision making. However, Department staff have been advised that they must make their own value judgments and be transparent and vigilant about any significant use of Generative AI. Staff remain 100% responsible for all outputs and they must ensure it is fit for use and factually correct. Where appropriate approval processes are put in place to ensure that all generated content is reviewed by multiple officials before it is published. In terms of the drafting of legislation, the Attorney Generals Office would also be consulted and, ultimately, it is the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel (OPC) who carries out the detailed drafting.
My Department led the development of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy - “AI – Here for Good”. As part of this Strategy, the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) play a key role in providing advice and guidance on the deployment of AI tools across the public sector including to my Department. The National AI Strategy and this cross-government engagement will continue to inform my Department's future approach in seeking to leverage A.I. in relation to the work and functions of the Department.
Business Supports
Questions (55)
Naoise Ó Muirí
Question:55. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if supports such as the online retail scheme and the trading online scheme will be subject to review given the increased pressures on small and medium enterprises arising from international uncertainty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21203/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Online Retail Scheme was introduced in 2018 as part of the ongoing work of the Retail Forum. From 2018 to 2023, more than 850 projects from retailers were approved for €30.7 million in funding through seven rounds of competitive calls, including two pilot rounds of the Online Retail Scheme. Retailers awarded funding under the Scheme operated across a broad spectrum of sectors including jewellery, fashion, sports, home-ware and furniture, healthcare, electrical goods and equipment and were based all across the country.
While there are no plans to introduce a new call of the Online Retail Scheme currently, my Department provides a wide range of digital supports designed to help small businesses, including retailers, through the network of Local Enterprise Offices.
Last September, my Department introduced the Grow Digital Voucher. This offer is available to more businesses compared to the Trading Online Voucher. In addition, the funding available has been increased to up to €5,000 to any small business with up to 50 employees, with no sector exclusions. The Trading Online Voucher was limited to businesses with up to 10 employees and certain sectors were not eligible.
The Grow Digital Voucher reflects the importance of digitalisation for all businesses and includes a wide variety of digital interventions, to support businesses on their digitalisation journey, and to contribute to the target in the National Digital Strategy of 90% basic digital intensity for SMEs by 2030.
Eligible expenditure includes e-commerce software, e-invoicing software, cybersecurity software, as well as analytics software including Artificial Intelligence systems. Website development subscriptions are also supported.
The Trading Online Voucher closed for new applications on 13th December 2024.
As a prerequisite to the Grow Digital Voucher, businesses must avail of the Digital for Business scheme. This consultancy helps businesses to prepare and implement a plan for the adoption of digital tools and techniques across the business. A digital consultant can help small businesses analyse their existing digital systems and identify any potential gaps in these systems, explore opportunities to optimise existing systems, and provide guidance on how to implement new or enhanced digital solutions. This consultancy is provided free and at no cost to the business.