Ryan O'Meara
Question:21. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on the work of the new small business unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62079/25]
View answerSmall and Medium Enterprises
Questions (21)
Written answers
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the Small Business Unit has been established in my Department, fulfilling a Programme for Government commitment. This demonstrates the importance that the Government places on small businesses.
The Unit has been tasked with ensuring that the needs and issues of small businesses have a dedicated focus and are recognised and acknowledged across Government. There are a number of tools this Unit and my Department will use to enable its work.
First, through the rigorous implementation of the SME Test. The SME Test tasks policy makers to consider the impact that any new policy, legislation, or regulation, may have on SMEs, and to mitigate against those impacts where appropriate.
In 2024, 26 SME Tests were applied by 8 Government Departments. So far in 2025, 22 SME Tests have been completed. Both the Small Business Unit and I are very keen for this number to grow every year and we are looking at new ways to improve enforcement of the SME Test.
Second, we have simplified access to grants and support programmes through the National Enterprise Hub. The NEH is hosted and operated by Enterprise Ireland and has over 250 different supports for businesses from 32 Departments and agencies.
Since launching last year, the NEH has handled over 8,000 enquiries. Monthly volumes have grown steadily, with over 1000 queries received in October alone, more than triple the number recorded in January. My Department is working on how to improve the NEH further with a greater emphasis on simplification.
Third, the newly established Small Business Unit has responsibility for the Local Enterprise Offices. We are ensuring the LEOs are properly resourced to help small businesses. A review of the full suite of LEO supports is currently out for tender while the Small Business Unit has completed a review of applications for all LEO grant schemes.
This review has resulted in a reduction of application questions across all schemes - for example down 47% for Business Expansion Grants, down 30% for the Green for Business Grant and down 28% for the Feasibility Grant, with further reductions targeted.
In addition to the Small Business Unit, my Department established the Cost of Business Advisory Forum delivering on our commitment regarding supports for Small Business, Enterprise and Industries.
The Forum brings together a broad section representative bodies spanning multiple sectors as well as the multinational corporations. The purpose is to jointly consider those issues that can lead to higher costs for businesses in Ireland, any associated regulatory or infrastructural issues that merit a changed approach, and those steps that could be taken to mitigate these issues. The Forum is scheduled to report to Government in Q1 2026.
Let me assure the Deputy that the Government and my Department are committed to backing businesses and will ensure the actions aimed at supporting small businesses in the Programme for Government are implemented in an effective and timely manner.
Tourism Policy
Questions (22)
Michael Cahill
Question:22. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when he will publish legislation on short term letting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62045/25]
View answerWritten answers
On 15 April, Government approved the General Scheme for the Short Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill. This Bill, when enacted, will provide the statutory basis for the introduction of a register for all Short Term Lettings (STLs) in Ireland, to be implemented and managed by Fáilte Ireland from 20 May 2026, ensuring compliance with the new EU Short Term Rental Regulation, which was adopted on 11 April 2024.
From 20 May 2026, all STL hosts offering accommodation for periods up to and including 21 nights will be obliged to register with Fáilte Ireland via a digital system and confirm their compliance with planning requirements. The registration process will take just 5 minutes to complete and will result in a unique registration number being issued for each STL unit registered. This number must be displayed when listing the STL unit on any online platforms.
Fáilte Ireland has estimated that, based on data for September 2025 which has been screen scraped from publicly available STL listings across four major booking platforms, there are c.34,680 STL properties in the State currently being advertised online and up to 65% of these properties are advertised as “entire” houses and apartments. The research points to a 24.3% increase from an estimated 27,900 units listed in August 2022. It is important, in such a fast-growing area, that we have oversight and data on where this growth is happening.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently carrying out a review of the Planning Acts and is developing guidance for local authorities on short-term letting by way of a National Planning Statement.
Minister Browne will progress any necessary legislative changes to implement the new Planning requirements. The National Planning Statement will be published in advance of the final enactment of the STLT Bill to provide clarity for the tourism sector.
Government is mindful of concerns in both rural and major tourism regions where Short Term Lettings provide much needed accommodation for visitors. These concerns are being addressed through continued engagement with all stakeholders.
On 16 June 2025 the General Scheme was referred to the Joint Committee on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to be considered for pre-legislative scrutiny. The Department and Fáilte Ireland appeared before the Committee on 15 October to provide an initial briefing. The Committee has since confirmed its intention to continue its scrutiny process. Drafting work on the Bill is ongoing and it is hoped to publish early in 2026, which allows the 8 weeks necessary for the Pre Legislative Scrutiny process. After the PLS in completed the Joint Committee will provide a report to my Department, which will consider the report and make any necessary revisions. The final draft of the Bill will then be submitted to Government for approval and publication.
The STLT legislation needs to be in place before 20 May 2026 to give effect to EU Short Term Rental Regulation.
heading
Questions (23)
Erin McGreehan
Question:23. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on the specific engagement his Department has had in County Louth with local SMEs, the Local Enterprise Office Louth, and other regional stakeholders, to identify gaps in enterprise supports; if he will set out any planned additional targeted supports for SMEs in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61998/25]
View answerWritten answers
My Government colleagues and I recognise the challenges faced by local businesses in towns and communities across the country in recent years, due to rising costs and other factors. However, there is a wide range of significant supports provided by Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) to assist small and medium-sized businesses across all sectors.
I had the pleasure of visiting the Drogheda Business Improvement District (BID) and the DEE Hub in Ardee this summer and was encouraged by the collaborative spirit shown by the organisations involved in these projects, including Failte Ireland, Louth County Council and the Local Enterprise Office, to ensure Drogheda businesses benefit from national and regional enterprise policies, and also ensuring we provide a bridge between government supports and local business needs.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) located in the 31 Local Authorities are a key partner for small businesses in Ireland, helping them to identify and tackle their controllable costs. The LEO in County Louth is actively engaged with its local business community, working to promote a suite of supports designed to assist small businesses to reduce their costs and become more productive and more competitive.
The LEOs provide consultancy and grants to small businesses across all sectors, in the areas of Lean, Green, and Digital, which enhance productivity and improve competitiveness and help business owners identify opportunities to save time, money and energy. Changes to these supports were also made in recent years to widen the eligibility criteria of these supports, with the Green and Digital Supports now available to small business with up to 50 employees.
The LEO Statement of strategy, 2024-2030, not only communicates the schemes, programmes and grants that are available through the LEO network, but it will be used to clarify the future strategic direction of these programmes. In particular, it emphasises the intent to make consultancy in the areas of Lean, Green and Digital available to a broader range of locally traded businesses.
Enterprise Ireland also supports Irish businesses to start, grow, innovate, and succeed in global markets. They work closely with client companies in every region, including County Louth, to support job creation, innovation, and international expansion. As of the most recent data, Enterprise Ireland-supported client companies in County Louth employ a total of 6,748 people, of which 6,150 are full-time. These figures form part of the national total of 234,454 people employed in Enterprise Ireland-backed companies across Ireland.
Additionally, IDA Ireland provides broad ranging support to existing client companies in County Louth, attracting new investment and delivering strategic infrastructure that underpins long-term regional growth. The agency actively engages with local stakeholders and industry groups to create a supportive ecosystem for foreign direct investment. This collaboration ensures that regional investments have access to the necessary skills, research capabilities, and business networks to thrive. By maintaining regular engagement with client companies and collaborating with local stakeholders, IDA ensures it can identify emerging needs and deliver targeted supports. These efforts help keep County Louth an attractive destination for foreign direct investment.
Small and Medium Enterprises
Questions (24)
Naoise Ó Cearúil
Question:24. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the seasonal supports available to small businesses in the food, catering, and hairdressing sectors during the 2025 Christmas period, in advance of the VAT reduction scheduled for July 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62146/25]
View answerWritten answers
My Government colleagues and I recognise the various challenges faced in recent years by local businesses in towns and communities across the country, with one such challenge being the cost of doing business. This particular challenge has arisen from both the wider inflationary trends and Government mandated changes in the form of improvements to working conditions across a range of areas. While there are no particular seasonal supports available, there are a range of supports available to small business across the country throughout the year.
In recognition of the challenges facing businesses in Ireland, the Government has recently published a new whole-of -Government Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity which contains a number of actions to reduce the cost of doing business in Ireland.
In response to rising costs and fulfilling a commitment made in Programme for Government 2025, my Department has established the Cost of Business Advisory Forum. The Advisory Forum is a tripartite collaboration, bringing together enterprise representative bodies, from retail and tourism to agriculture and the multinational sector, alongside Government Departments and State Agencies. It facilitates a solution-focused dialogue between businesses, policymakers, regulators and subject matters experts, who have insight into the factors driving the rising costs of business in Ireland. The Forum is scheduled to report to Government in Q1 2026.
Budget 2026 has also provided an overall package of €9.4bn. €8.1bn has been provided for public spending and €1.3bn for new tax measures. Measures which will benefit SME’s include:
• A reduction in the Hospitality VAT rate from 13.5% to 9% from 1 July 2025.
• An increase in the rate of the R&D Tax Credit from 30% to 35%, inclusion of R&D employee emoluments, and increase in the first-year payment threshold from €75,000 to €87,500.
• An increase in the CGT Revised Entrepreneur Relief lifetime limit from €1m to €1.5m
• An increase in the Employer PRSI threshold to ensure that employers do not pay the higher rate of PRSI for full-time workers earning the minimum wage.
• Extension of the KEEP scheme to 31st of December 2028.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), which fall under the remit of my Department, are located in the 31 Local Authorities and promote a suite of supports designed to assist small businesses to reduce their costs and become more productive and more competitive.
The LEOs provide consultancy and grants to small businesses across all sectors, in the areas of Lean, Green, and Digital. These supports focus on enhancing productivity and improving competitiveness in small businesses and can help business owners identify opportunities to save time, money and energy. The LEOs also offer mentoring, training, and developmental supports to small businesses which are tailored to specific business requirements.
For more information on the supports available through the LEOs or any other Government bodies, I would encourage business owners to visit the National Enterprise Hub (NEH).
The NEH is an all-of-government service, staffed by expertly trained advisors and is focused on helping businesses access a range of government supports. The hub brings together information and resources on over 250 government supports from 32 different Departments and State Agencies.
I would also advise anyone with their own small business or anyone looking to start their own small business to contact their Local Enterprise Office and ask to speak to a business advisor about what supports are available to them.
Work Permits
Questions (25)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:25. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if there are efforts underway in his Department to streamline the process of work permits and visas for non-EEA nationals into a single integrated process so that a work permit will not expire before a visa is granted; if his Department has had any engagement with the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration in relation to this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61765/25]
View answerWritten answers
On 13th December 2022, the Government agreed in principle to develop a single application procedure for employment permits and immigration permissions, in line with the recast Single Permit Directive. Since then, my Department has engaged extensively with the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration (DJHAM) to progress this commitment.
A May 2024 Government decision agreed, in principle, that Ireland should opt-into the Single Permit Directive. To facilitate this, a programme management team, co-chaired by my Department and DJHAM, was established to oversee the implementation of a single procedure for employment and immigration permissions. Work is ongoing and aiming for implementation in 2027.
A crucial step in creating a single application procedure between my Department and DJHAM is the interoperability of our respective systems. I am pleased to inform you that the new ‘Employment Permits Online’ system launched earlier this year, providing a secure, cloud-based system for the application, processing, and issuance of employment permits. This system, which sits on a Microsoft Power Platform is based on similar technologies that the DJHAM’s various systems are expected to move to and will support the infrastructure required for a single application process across the two departments.
In addition to this important milestone, the project management team, co-chaired by my Department and the DJHAM have been laying the groundwork for the enhanced sharing of information between our IT systems, any legislative changes required for this, and engaging with EU bodies and Member States with processes in place that are similar to what we are currently developing. With a modern, adaptable employment permit system now in place, this collaboration will continue in earnest over the next year, focusing on initial streamlining while working towards a fully implemented single application procedure by 2027.
In the short-term and in recognition of the Market Diversity Action Plan, both Departments are actively exploring options to expedite visa processing for critical skills employment permit holders in high-demand sectors.
These developments mark a necessary and significant step towards a more integrated and efficient employment permit and visa system, ultimately bringing us closer to our goal of a Single Permit application procedure. My Department remains committed to delivering a streamlined and customer focused service.
Labour Market
Questions (26)
Maeve O'Connell
Question:26. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department has had any engagement with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science regarding the changes to the national training fund, and how it may affect businesses. [61623/25]
View answerWritten answers
The National Training Fund (NTF) has a valuable role to play as Ireland faces critical challenges in responding to the skills and workforce development needs arising from major global disruptors including the digital and climate transitions, demographic change, and deglobalisation. My Department has been engaging closely with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in recent years to explore ways to unlock the NTF surplus and embed continuous skills development in the labour market. In light of the range of competitiveness challenges Ireland currently faces, it is essential that employers, employees, and those seeking employment have access to appropriate learning and development supports.
The NTF funding package agreed as part of Budget 2025 will ensure essential investment in the tertiary sector over the next six years. This funding package includes capital funding which required an amendment to the National Training Fund Act. The funding will be channelled through agencies of Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) as these agencies provide the main levers for investment in skills and training in Ireland. Over the course of this year, officials from my Department have been in regular contact with colleagues from DFHERIS as proposals were made and drafting begun for the National Training Fund (Amendment) Bill 2025.
The proposed investment is fully aligned with the skills needs of the enterprise sector including the client bases of IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, and the Local Enterprise Offices, and will play a crucial role in future-proofing the Irish economy and safeguarding employment and the workforce from significant global disruptors. I welcome the recognition that there should be consultation with my Department and Enterprise Ireland to ensure skills interventions are aligned to industry needs and the needs of indigenous enterprise.
Officials from the Labour Market and Skills Unit in my Department are participating in a steering group that is working with the ESRI on an evaluation and monitoring framework for the National Training Fund. I fully support the work of the ESRI and I look forward to reviewing this research when available. In light of the scale of the NTF, it is essential that we get better information on the impact of schemes – whether that be upskilling those in employment or training for those who wish to acquire skills to take up employment. Following the recent legislative changes to the NTF, it will be important that we continue to monitor the impact the NTF is having on skills in the labour market.
Tourism Promotion
Questions (27)
Louis O'Hara
Question:27. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his Department’s efforts to promote tourism in east County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61449/25]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset, I should clarify that regional tourism promotion is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, in collaboration with Local Authorities and other tourism stakeholders. County Galway is included in Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Regional Tourism Development Strategies 2023 – 2027. County Galway encompasses these two programme areas as follows; Galway City and the west coastline which is along the Wild Atlantic Way, while the east of the county is in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.
Fáilte Ireland has established localised Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs) to activate these brands. The DEDPs are 5-year sustainable tourism development plans for a destination, which bring public and private sector organisations together to prioritise tourism development projects and maximise their chance for success. The DEDP’s are highly collaborative in nature, involving all local stakeholders and this is reflected in the agreed action plans where ownership is assigned among the various parties.
Consultants were appointed to develop an East Galway DEDP in September 2025. An initial meeting was held with Galway County Council on November 5th, with the first working group meeting due to take place in the coming weeks.
Small and Medium Enterprises
Questions (28)
Shay Brennan
Question:28. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment how Budget 2026 will support the SME sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62048/25]
View answerWritten answers
Budget 2026 is a pro-enterprise Budget and was framed in consideration of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity and the Programme for Government (PfG) 2025: Securing Ireland’s Future. The ongoing Finance Bill process will ensure that the tax changes made in the Budget are placed on a legislative footing.
Budget 2026 has introduced a number of new tax measures - alongside changes to existing measures - that will support the SME sector, including the following:
• A reduction in the Hospitality VAT rate from 13.5% to 9%, which will be introduced from 1 July 2025. This reduction will apply specifically to food/catering and hairdressing. This reduction in the VAT rate will address concerns raised by the sector about business viability.
• The Employer PRSI threshold has been increased to ensure that employers do not pay the higher rate of PRSI for full-time workers earning the minimum wage.
• The R&D tax credit has been increased from 30% to 35%, with SMEs due to benefit proportionally more from this change than larger firms subject to the minimum effective tax rate. The increase in the first-year payment threshold, from €75,000 to €87,500, is also beneficial for SMEs. Furthermore, as noted by Minister Donohoe in the Budget 2026 speech, an R&D Compass will be published shortly to set out the future direction of developments in R&D and innovation.
• The Key Employee Engagement Programme (KEEP) has been extended for a further three years. KEEP is a share option scheme aimed at helping SMEs to attract and retain skilled employees in a competitive market.
• Budget 2026 has also increased the lifetime limit of the Revised Entrepreneur Relief from €1m to €1.5m, which provides a significant potential benefit for scaling companies.
In addition to these budgetary measures, the Government has taken action to address business costs through the publication of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, and the convening of the Cost of Business Advisory Forum, which are both commitments in the Programme for Government. These places a considerable emphasis on supporting and scaling Irish SMEs, reducing administrative burden and addressing cost related matters for SMEs.
The establishment of the Small Business Unit within my Department further demonstrates the importance that the Government places on small businesses. This includes a process of simplifying access to grants and support programmes through the National Enterprise Hub and ensuring the Local Enterprise Offices are properly resourced to help small businesses. The Unit has been tasked with ensuring that the needs and issues of small businesses have a dedicated focus and are recognised and acknowledged across Government.
Tourism Policy
Questions (29)
Sean Fleming
Question:29. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his plans to invest in tourism marketing and tourism product development, including investment in regenerative tourism projects in the midlands with the help of the EU just transition fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62077/25]
View answerWritten answers
Tourism Ireland’s marketing message is that the island of Ireland has so much to offer across regions and seasons. The organisation’s focus remains on marketing the island effectively overseas, giving visitors compelling reasons to choose this destination. Working with influential travel, lifestyle and special interest media is an important element of Tourism Ireland’s overseas promotional programme.
In October images of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands were beamed into the homes of 1.2 million people across Italy, when a special Ireland episode of a popular Italian TV show called Geo aired on Italian TV. Filming took place here last year and was supported by Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland. The episode was filmed at multiple locations in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands including Brookfield Farm near Nenagh, Birr Castle Demesne, Lough Boora Discovery Park, Strokestown Park House, Athlone Castle, Sean’s Bar in Athlone, Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery and Celtic Roots Studio.
Tourism Ireland was delighted to support the production of this special episode of Geo, shining a spotlight on Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. The episode captured the essence of this special part of Ireland – its beautiful landscapes, rich heritage and welcoming people. With 1.2 million viewers across Italy tuning in, it’s a wonderful opportunity to inspire future visitors to come and experience Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands for themselves.
Publicity and broadcasts are a key element of Tourism Ireland’s programme of activity to grow tourism from overseas markets, and this is just one example of the work being undertaken by Tourism Ireland in relation to the Midlands and Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.
Fáilte Ireland’s Regional Tourism Development Strategies 2023 – 2027 are a roadmap for the tourism industry and all stakeholders involved in tourism. The Development Strategies set out a strategic approach to unlocking the commercial potential each region. It ensures focus on tourism development is sustainable and regenerative and that the benefits accrue to local communities and to nature.
To activate these strategies, Fáilte Ireland has established localised five-year Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs). These include the "Upper Shannon, Shannon-Erne, and Border DEDP" which was launched in 2024. This plan involves cooperation between Cavan, Leitrim, and Roscommon County Councils, Waterways Ireland, local development companies, tourism businesses, and communities. It aims to leverage key assets like the River Shannon to boost tourism.
Some examples of capital projects in development are:
• Shannon Pot and Cavan Burren Park
• The Beara Breifne Way
• Acres Lake water sports activity facilities
• Irelands Mountain Bike Experience (Slieve Blooms -Offaly and Laois)
A second DEDP will cover the Mid-Shannon and Midlands region including South Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath and Offaly. It is anticipated that this DEDP will be launched in 2026.
A DEDP for County Laois is currently in development, which will shape a long-term vision for sustainable tourism in the county.
Under the EU Just Transition Fund, Fáilte Ireland has been tasked with the administration of €68 million of the fund for a Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme 2023-2026. Through this scheme Fáilte Ireland will invest in the sustainable development of tourism in the Midlands with the aim of diversifying the regional economy by creating jobs, supporting habitats and biodiversity and sustaining communities.
There are two main elements to the overall scheme:
€38m towards the diversification of the regional economy through the sustainable development of tourism.
€30m towards the regeneration and repurposing of peatlands through the development of a network of trails.
The EU Just Transition Fund geographic territory includes the following 8 counties: Longford; Offaly; Roscommon; Laois; Westmeath; Galway; Kildare and Tipperary
To note, counties Galway, Kildare and Tipperary are only partially covered by the scheme so the focus in these areas is on the municipal districts of Ballinasloe in East Galway, Carrick on Suir and Thurles in Tipperary, and Athy and Clane-Maynooth in Kildare.
The overall scheme is being delivered through a range of funding programmes, which will run in parallel between now and until the end of 2026, as follows:
· Scheme A: Trail Network Development Scheme (delivered primarily through BnM (formerly Bord na Mona))
The main intervention under this scheme will be the development of universally accessible ‘rollable’ cycle trails on former industrial peatlands across public lands in EU Just Transition territory. This will include new trail developments as well as upgrades to existing trails to significantly improve the user experience.
• Scheme B: Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for SMEs
The purpose of the scheme is to deliver grant-aid to private and community-based micro enterprises and SMEs to help them improve the quality of the visitor experience within the Territory. This will create new jobs in local communities and grow the visitor economy while pursuing net positive benefits for biodiversity.
• Scheme C & D: Investment Grant-Aid Scheme for Local Authorities and certain State Agencies
The purpose of these schemes is to deliver grant-aid to relevant State Agencies and the eight Local Authorities within the Just Transition Territory to deliver improved tourism infrastructure, facilities and visitor experiences, including those that can be leveraged by the private and community sectors.
• Scheme E: Appointment of County Tourism Activators to Local Authorities
Funding has been provided to appoint one full-time or part-time Tourism Activator in each of the eight participating County Councils (Roscommon, Longford, Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, Kildare, Galway and Tipperary) within the JTF Territory in order to build capacity within private and community-based micro enterprises and SMEs and establish a series of high performing tourism business clusters and networks.
Scheme F: Enterprise Supports Scheme
This scheme provides access to a fully funded tailored programme of tourism skills; capability building and supports for new and existing tourism enterprises and individuals transitioning to tourism in the territory to drive productivity. This will support the creation of new jobs in the sector and contribute to growing the visitor economy.
To date, over €54 million in funding has been announced under Fáilte Ireland's EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the EU. This includes 54 private and community SME projects, 23 Local Authority and State Agency projects, and 3 projects under the Trail Network Scheme in partnership with BnM. The funding also supports 84 participants in the Tourism Learning Programme, 66 participants in the Digital Transformation Programme, and 8 Tourism Activators - one in each county across the territory. Further projects will be announced in the coming weeks.
Artificial Intelligence
Questions (30)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:30. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for the artificial intelligence adoption accelerator available through Enterprise Ireland digital discovery grant to be expanded from the current specific criteria (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62012/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Digital Discovery Grant is an Enterprise Ireland (EI) initiative to help Irish businesses start their digital and AI transformation journey. The grant provides up to 80% funding for projects, capped at €5,000 –€6,300, typically covering three to seven days of external consultancy at a maximum rate of €900 per day. Enterprise Ireland offers support to Irish-owned businesses in manufacturing or internationally traded services with ten plus employees, and EIs High Potential Start-Ups (HPSUs).
One potential use of the grant is to support the costs of the AI Adoption Accelerator, the Galvia AI Programme which runs a five week AI Accelerator designed to help SMEs integrate AI solutions. Delivered in hybrid format, offering virtual and in-person workshops at Platform94 in Galway. The cost of the programme is €4,995, but EI covers 80% via the Digital Discovery Grant, reducing the cost significantly for eligible SMEs.
To further support SMEs, EI is enhancing its Innovation Voucher Scheme, doubling the available funding to €10,000. This increase will enable more businesses to invest in research and development, fostering a culture of innovation that is essential for long-term success. The agency, in conjunction with the Local Enterprise Offices, is also expanding the eligibility criteria for the Trading Online Voucher, now available to all sectors with up to fifty employees and doubling the grant to €5,000. This initiative is designed to encourage SMEs to embrace digital sales channels, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market. Moreover, the Digital for Business Consultancy Scheme will be extended to include all sectors with up to fifty employees, providing expert advice and support to help SMEs navigate the complexities of digital transformation.
The Local Enterprise Offices offer supports for businesses employing up to fifty people. The Digital for Business grant offers a 100% funded consultancy support for three days, which can include work on the applicability and use of AI for a business.
As part of the Digital Europe Programme, the European Commission and the Irish Government co-fund four European Digital Innovation Hubs - CeADAR, ENTIRE, FactoryXChange and Datat2Sustain were established in 2023 across the country to support the adoption of advanced digital technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and High Performance Computing in SMEs and public sector organisations. The European Digital Innovation Hubs provide technical expertise, experimentation, and innovation services, fostering a culture of innovation and enabling new business models. Their training programmes build a digitally skilled workforce, empowering employees to drive digital transformation. CeADAR makes AI accessible through transformational support and training. ENTIRE and FactoryXChange enhance SMEs' competitiveness through digital technologies, improving business processes and production. Data2Sustain focuses on supporting SMEs to adopt sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact.
Flexible Work Practices
Questions (31)
Pearse Doherty
Question:31. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will provide an update on supports for remote working and remote working hubs in Donegal as a measure to address regional imbalance; whether additional supports will be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62293/25]
View answerThe information is set out in the table below.
TABLE 1 – Connectedhubs.ie - Remote Working Hubs in County Donegal
(as of the 10th of November 2025)
|
Hub Name |
Area |
|
ACL Co Work and Train |
Ballyshannon |
|
Clonmany Community Hub |
Clonmany, Inishowen |
|
CoLab |
Letterkenny |
|
CoWork Plus Bundoran |
Main Street, Bundoran |
|
Donegal Town Enterprise Centre |
Donegal Town |
|
Enterprise Fund Business Centre Letterkenny |
Letterkenny |
|
Greencastle Community Centre |
Greencastle |
|
gteic @ An Tearmann - CoWork Plus An Tearmann |
An Tearmann / Termon |
|
gteic @ Árainn Mhór - MODAM |
Árainn Mhór / Arranmore Island |
|
gteic @ Baile na Finne |
Baile na Finne / Fintown |
|
gteic @ Carraig Airt |
Carraig Airt / Carraigart |
|
gteic @ Cill Charthaigh |
Cill Charthaigh / Kilcar |
|
gteic @ Gaoth Dobhair |
Gaoth Dobhair / Gweedore |
|
gteic @ Málainn Bhig |
Gleann Cholm Cille / Glencolmcille |
|
gteic @ Na Dúnaibh - Mevagh Family Resource Centre |
Na Dúnaibh / Downings |
|
ii - inishowen innovation |
Buncrana |
|
Ray Community Centre |
Ray, Milford |
|
Serenity House Learning Centre |
Moville |
|
Spraoi agus Spórt |
Carndonagh |
|
Termon Complex |
Pettigo |
|
The BASE |
Stranorlar |
|
The Business Hub |
Letterkenny |
Tourism Industry
Questions (32)
Paul Donnelly
Question:32. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his views on the lack of access to hotels for those with mobility issues; and specifically the availability of hoists. [58315/25]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Disability Act 2005, disability policy in Ireland is delivered on a mainstream basis, with responsibility falling to each Minister and his or her department to ensure that their functions are executed with due regard for the needs of disabled people.
Regulation of tourism accommodation is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland and the authority aims to position Ireland as a world leader in accessible and inclusive tourism by 2030 and is actively working toward achieving that goal.
The Tourist Traffic Acts 1939-2011 Registration and Renewal of Registration Regulations for Hotels 2016 require that registered hotel premises provide access for persons with mobility difficulties, including wheelchair users, to the entrance hall, reception, bedrooms and public areas, including bathroom and toilet facilities in accordance with the 'Building Regulations Technical Guidance, Access and Use'. As it happens, I introduced those latter Regulations in my previous role as Minister of State for Local Government and Planning in 2022.
At present, Fáilte Ireland reports that while accessible accommodations exist, they are often not well-publicised.
To drive meaningful early change in this area, Fáilte Ireland has developed the ‘Access for Success’ initiative to empower hotels with pre-travel information tools, to improve the clarity and availability of accessibility information, boosting visitor confidence and booking conversion. This initiative also aims to elevate accessibility standards within hotels through tailored guidance and training supports.
In addition to the Access for Success initiative, Fáilte Ireland is delivering a new 'accessible and inclusive tourism' capability programme, to enhance skills and competencies for frontline staff and leadership teams in client businesses. This 'capability' is defined as the strategic creation and development of tourism experiences, environments, and services that are welcoming, safe, and usable by all individuals - regardless of ability, background, or personal circumstance.
To ensure all tourists can enjoy Ireland’s tourism offering, the tourism agencies are also engaged in on-going work with the wider tourism sector and advocacy groups to identify and address barriers and issues that can restrict access to tourist sites and services.
This continuous drive for improvement to: tourism infrastructure including accommodation; the use of innovative technology; and staff training will better serve and harness the growing, high value inclusive Irish tourism market.
Enterprise Policy
Questions (33)
Martin Daly
Question:33. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the means by which his Department intends to support Athlone’s continued growth as a key regional centre of innovation and employment; and whether consideration is being given to enabling or streamlining the use of compulsory purchase orders by local authorities where necessary to facilitate strategic urban development in pursuit of future city status. [62291/25]
View answerWritten answers
I continue to emphasise the importance of regional development and the role of my department’s agencies in driving economic growth and employment in the regions. Earlier this year, Enterprise Ireland launched its new strategy “Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally (2025–2029)”. This strategy prioritises regional enterprise development, innovation, and sustainability and building the capability of Irish companies to grow in world markets. Over 60 percent of all EI client company employment is outside Dublin.
As of 2024 there were 3,269 employed in EI client companies based in Westmeath, an increase of 1.1 % on the 3,234 people employed in 2023. From 2020 to 2024, EI approved €66 million in the midland’s region in funding for enterprise and related activities in the region. €47 million went directly to enterprise development.
Since 2019, the Regional Technology Clustering Fund has supported 12 clusters across Technological University campuses nationwide, with a total investment of €10.18 million. Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) is one of these clusters, based at TUS Athlone Campus. The cluster is an Industry-led initiative focused on innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth in Ireland’s manufacturing sector. The cluster has 94 industry members from the Midlands (with 100 members in total) 62 Enterprise Ireland client companies, 10 IDA Ireland clients, 14 Local Enterprise Office (LEO) clients and 8 Údarás na Gaeltachta clients
The 2025 New Frontiers programme for the Midlands & Mid-East Region, funded by Enterprise Ireland to support local start-ups, attracted 103 participants this year in Phase 1, of which 14 were selected to progress to Phase 2 from October. The programme supports high potential start-up from the Midlands & Mid-East counties with mentoring, hot-desk space and a €15,000 stipend to allow exploration of their new business idea. The country has a strong country-wide infrastructure of innovation hubs and research centres, industry clusters, the finance and investment communities, and mentoring networks to support enterprise development across all regions and sectors
The Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) based in Westmeath is a leading Research and Technology Organisation providing a portfolio of operations research, training, and consultancy services to Industry. This centre has received support of over €2m through the REDF fund, with the aim to develop and commercialise next generation manufacturing technologies, deemed critical by Irish companies, through a collaborative industrial engagement business model.
The Midlands REP covers Longford, Westmeath, Laois and Offaly and was launched in 2022. It works to leverage the established strengths of the region in relation to transitioning to a net zero carbon economy, smart specialisation and digitalisation, and placemaking. It is overseen and monitored by a Steering Committee made up of representatives from the public and private sector.
There are 52 IDA client companies in the Midlands Region, employing 8,045 people. The FDI performance in the region has been consistent over the past five years with employment among IDA clients increasing by 26%.
Athlone is the Midlands Regional Growth Centre, as outlined in the National Planning Framework and the Eastern and Midlands Regional Assembly Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy. Regional growth centres are towns designated for targeted development to drive economic activity and population growth within a specific region. In 2023, an Economic Strategy for Athlone was launched jointly by Roscommon and Westmeath County Councils. The purpose was to inform Westmeath and Roscommon County Council’s preparation of a joint strategy for the future development of Athlone up to the year 2040. It aims to capitalise on Athlone’s central location by creating a destination capable of attracting high quality talent, investors, businesses, and tourists to the town, supported by key stakeholders in the town and surrounding region.
By focusing on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, my Department aims to create a more resilient and competitive business environment in the midlands region.
Proposals to streamline the use of compulsory purchase orders are outside the remit of my Department. I am aware that the Compulsory Purchase Order Bill 2025 is currently at second stage in Dáil Éireann.
Derelict Sites
Questions (34)
Thomas Gould
Question:34. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether he would engage with Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to develop guidance for meanwhile use of derelict and vacant buildings for start-ups and small businesses. [62051/25]
View answerWritten answers
Tackling vacancy is a priority for this Government. The Programme for Government, Securing Ireland’s Future, commits to addressing the issue of vacancy, including through the renovation of old buildings to promote high-density housing development in brownfield sites.
While high rates of vacancy have implications beyond enterprise, I am conscious that, from the standpoint of the broader economy, a high level of vacancy does not represent a productive use of our existing commercial infrastructure.
However, vacancy is not a straightforward topic; vacancy rates can rise, fall and otherwise shift depending on variations in economic activity as well as in response to broader economic trends and other factors, as we saw during the widespread move to remote working during the pandemic.
Development of any guidance for meanwhile use of derelict and vacant buildings would fall under the remit of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. That said, I would be open to engagement between our Departments and relevant agencies toward its development. Officials of my Department have previously participated in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Working Group on the Redevelopment of Commercial Property, with a focus on the potential redevelopment of commercial buildings for residential use.
Enterprise Policy
Questions (35)
Tony McCormack
Question:35. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department has undertaken any recent analysis of the challenges and future prospects for the retail sector in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61548/25]
View answerWritten answers
While my Department has not undertaken any specific economic assessment focused solely on the challenges and prospects for the Irish retail sector in 2025, the Government is actively and continuously monitoring trends affecting the sector. This includes tracking company registration and liquidation data, as well as broader economic and sectoral indicators.
Between January and May 2025, there were 74 liquidations in the retail sector, a 45% increase compared to the same period in 2024. However, only a portion of these closures were due to insolvencies, as there were 51 solvent liquidations during this time. It is also important to note that this has not occurred in isolation. 276 new retail businesses were registered during the same period, meaning that there has been a net increase in the number of these firms.
According to the latest CSO data, employment in the sector has expanded, increasing from just under 320,000 in Q2 2024 to just under 327,000 in Q2 2025, an increase of just over 2%. The Retail Sales Index shows a 3.5% increase in sales volumes in September 2025 compared to the same month in 2024. Card spending has also risen, with figures from the Central Bank of Ireland indicating an increase from just under €3.6 billion in September 2024 to just over €3.8 billion in September 2025, or about 6%.
Input costs are also easing on average, with the CSO’s Wholesale Price Index showing a 2.6% decline in the 12 months to September 2025. However, there has been a slight decline in consumer confidence, as reflected in the Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index, which dropped from 74.1 in October 2024 to 59.9 in October 2025.
The Government acknowledges the challenges facing SMEs and the measures we have implemented to date, demonstrate our commitment to supporting enterprise, protecting jobs, and fostering a competitive, sustainable business environment. In particular, a series of measures have recently been adopted to help minimise cost pressures for Irish firms. These include extending the timeline for the introduction of the Living Wage by three years (to 2029) and a halt to any further increases under the Statutory Sick Leave scheme.
Most recently, the Government has taken action to address business costs through the publication of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, and the convening of the Cost of Business Advisory Forum, both of which are commitments in the Programme for Government. The focus of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity is on actions that can be taken to strengthen Ireland’s competitiveness and productivity which in turn will lead to improvements in our economic performance.
Complementary to the Action Plan, the Cost of Business Advisory Forum delivers on the commitment to support small business, enterprise, and industries across a number of sectors. The Forums’ key objective is to examine and identify the concerns of enterprise around the impact of the rising cost of doing business in Ireland. The Forums is scheduled to report to Government in q3 2026.
Enterprise Policy
Questions (36)
Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Question:36. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if there will be a new Southeast Regional Enterprise Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62042/25]
View answerWritten answers
Balanced regional development remains a Government priority. My Department and its agencies contribute to this agenda in several ways, including through 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.
My Department oversees implementation of the REPs at the national level. The most recent meeting of the REP National Oversight Group took place in June 2025 where implementation across all REPs was discussed. The next meeting of the REP National Oversight Group will take place on 26 November.
Each of the nine REPs is led by a Steering Committee which includes representatives from the enterprise agencies, local authorities, Regional Assemblies, higher education institutes and industry, who work collaboratively to drive implementation of the REP. Each REP includes a actions under a number of strategic objectives relevant to each region.
As mentioned in responses to previous parliamentary questions, in consultation with stakeholders, the current plans were extended for one year to the end of 2025 to allow for further implementation of current objectives and actions, as well as consideration of the future of the REPs.
The Programme for Government commits to publishing and resourcing new Regional Enterprise Plans and ensuring detailed consultation with all relevant stakeholders. My Department is working to deliver on this commitment.
In Q1 2025, my Department appointed Indecon to conduct an independent review of the Regional Enterprise Plan initiative and the final report has been delivered. The report findings are being examined by my Department, and consideration is being given to the next steps, to learn from the current plans and improve our future approach. Once we have decided on how best to take things forward, we will be communicating to all relevant stakeholders.
Work is also underway on a new regional enterprise policy statement which will map out the regional enterprise policy landscape and facilitate better alignment of the REPs with the activities of other regional stakeholders.
Following publication of the policy statement in 2026, I expect the formal consultation process for the development of the next set of Regional Enterprise Plans to get underway, with the aim of publishing new plans in 2026.
Business Regulation
Questions (37)
Ryan O'Meara
Question:37. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his plans to enhance the business regulatory environment by removing unnecessary regulatory or administrative burdens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62078/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity – a commitment in the Programme for Government – is a whole-of-government strategic response to the challenges that Ireland is facing. A key focus of the Action Plan is improving Ireland’s regulatory environment under the theme “Regulating for Growth and Controlling Costs.”
Measures under this theme include introducing a ‘Red Tape Challenge’ across Government to reduce regulation for SMEs, a public consultation to identify areas of high burden, and all Government Departments to apply the SME test to all measures in particular to policy initiatives where it is proposed to increase costs on small business.
In terms of my own Department, there is an ongoing commitment to ensuring that the regulatory environment is proportionate and fit for purpose. This includes the conduct of Regulatory Impact Analysis and the systematic application of the SME Test, which has been designed to invite consideration of less stringent compliance requirements for smaller companies, where appropriate and proportionate.
My Department has also established a Small Business Unit which has been tasked with ensuring that the needs and issues of small businesses have a dedicated focus and are recognised and acknowledged across Government. Work is ongoing to streamline the business supports landscape, including simplifying access to grants and support programmes through the National Enterprise Hub.
In terms of legislative change, the Companies Act was updated through the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Act 2024 which introduced a range of practical reforms consistent with ensuring that Ireland’s regulatory framework provides flexibility and is fit for modern business operating in an increasingly digital and virtual environment. Work is ongoing to modernise and reform a range of other legislation including the Co-operative Societies Bill and legislation relating to Limited Partnerships and Business Names.
The foregoing complements work ongoing at EU level where there is a particular focus on simplification and burden reduction, with a view to improving EU competitiveness and ensuring there aren’t disproportionate burdens on business, particularly SMEs.
The reform agenda is being strongly driven by EU leaders with the European Council calling for a “simplification revolution” by ensuring a clear, simple and smart regulatory framework for businesses and reducing administrative, regulatory and reporting burdens, in particular for SMEs. In June 2025, the European Council called for the avoidance of over-regulation and the introduction of administrative burdens throughout the legislative process. To date, the European Commission has published six simplification Omnibus packages, with others due before end 2025 and into 2026.
Pensions Reform
Questions (38)
Joe Neville
Question:38. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment while welcoming both the VAT 9% rate and the auto enrolment scheme, the supports his Department has in place for businesses that are not in a position to benefit from the reduction to VAT 9%, and have increased costs under the new auto enrolment scheme and increased minimum wage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62254/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Government recognises that the cost of doing business has been an issue for firms in recent years, arising from both the wider inflationary trends and Government mandated changes in the form of improvements to working conditions across a range of areas. It is important to note that costs for firms, as measured through the CSO’s Wholesale Price Index, are declining, and are down 2.6% in the 12 months to September 2025.
Most recently the Government has taken action to address business costs through the publication of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, and the convening of the Cost of Business Advisory Forum, which are both commitments in the Programme for Government.
The focus of the Action Plan is on actions that can be taken to strengthen Ireland’s competitiveness and productivity which in turn will lead to improvements in our economic performance. A core theme of the plan is ‘Regulating for Growth and Controlling Costs’, with 18 actions – including five priority actions – focused on addressing this issue. Key actions areas include Better Regulation which will decrease regulatory burden for business, addressing Ireland’s high legal costs, and improving competition in our markets.
The establishment of the Cost of Business Advisory Forum delivers on the commitment regarding supports for Small Business, Enterprise and Industries. The first meeting of the Forum took place on the 11th of June with representatives in attendance from across Ireland’s enterprise sector (including the SMEs) and joined by officials from a variety of State Agencies, Regulators, and Government Departments.
The Forum is tripartite collaboration bringing together a broad section representative bodies spanning multiple sectors as well as the multinational corporations. The purpose is to jointly consider those issues that can lead to higher costs for businesses in Ireland, any associated regulatory or infrastructural issues that merit a changed approach, and those steps that could be taken to mitigate these issues. The Forum is scheduled to report to Government in Q1 2026.
As part of Budget 2026, the Government agreed to increase the National Minimum Wage which will bring the minimum wage to €14.15 per hour (from 1st January next year). The Government is committed to ensuring 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 part of measures designed to bolster business resilience and support competitiveness, Government agreed to extend the timeline for the introduction of the Living Wage to 2029. The Government also agreed to defer a decision on sub-minimum youth rates of the National Minimum Wage until 2029 and to cease the further roll-out of Statutory Sick Leave at the current five days.
Budget 2026 has also provided an overall package of €9.4bn – €8.1bn has been provided for public spending and €1.3bn for new tax measures. Measures aimed specifically at developing enterprise and supporting SMEs - including changes to the CGT regime - account for c.€531m of the cost of the Budget Package, or 40 per cent of the tax package. The full year cost of enterprise measures will be c. €1.1bn.
Budget 2026 is a pro-enterprise Budget that has been framed in consideration of the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity and the Programme for Government 2025.
Enterprise Policy
Questions (39)
Naoise Ó Cearúil
Question:39. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the means by which IDA Ireland determines site visit locations; and to provide the factors that may have contributed to the decline in visits to County Kildare since 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62147/25]
View answerWritten answers
Regional Development is a key focus of our Programme for Government and is central to the work of my Department and our enterprise development agencies. In this regard, regional development is one of four key strategic objectives of the IDA 2025–2029 strategy, "Adapt Intelligently" with a commitment to secure 550 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects outside Dublin - 55% of all planned investments. Additionally, the overarching goal is to create 75,000 new jobs nationwide and generate a projected €250 billion in economic impact with the IDA having set ambitious targets for every region in Ireland.
As the Deputy is aware, a robust property and infrastructure ecosystem can be the key differentiator in winning FDI projects. The availability of suitable property and strategic sites is a critical component of the regional value proposition and to the winning of investments into the regions from both new name clients and from the existing client base. IDA Ireland’s property strategy aims to address regional market failure through investment in enterprise-focused property solutions that meet the needs of multinational companies and domestic clients in support of winning investments.
IDA Ireland client companies generally prioritise the availability of property and talent when carrying out their initial assessment of a potential investment location. Once Ireland has been successfully selected, IDA will present several locations that match the client’s business need. The client will assess these locations and then choose the locations it wishes to visit. Clients will have other criteria that are specific to their requirements such as proximity to a large urban centre, proximity to transport infrastructure (Airport and Seaport) or to be located close to a customer. These factors, and many more, make up the business needs of the client who makes the final decision on where to visit and where to invest. Finally, it should be noted that Ireland is now operating in an ever-changing global investment landscape where competition is increasing as our competitor countries introduce sectoral strategies and increase grant, and tax offerings to attract investment.
IDA Ireland has a team dedicated to the delivery of investments to the Mid-East, including Co. Kildare, who work closely with colleagues overseas and in specialised sectors such as Life Sciences, Technology and International Financial Services to secure investment to the region. The Agency continues to work closely with key stakeholders in the region, including County Councils and skills and education providers to promote the region, including Kildare, as a destination for foreign direct investment.
I can assure the Deputy that the IDA continues to do its utmost to promote all locations in Ireland, including Kildare, with the many advantages it has, but must stress that, ultimately, individual investors decide which counties to visit, and where to locate their investments. To this end, the IDA will continue to ensure Kildare is promoted, building on the success it has enjoyed to date as a successful location for IDA client companies. Naturally, however, year-on-year, the number of visits to any location will vary.
Industrial Disputes
Questions (40)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:40. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he intends to amend and extend certain rights and protections of retired persons and certain representative associations in relation to industrial relations and trade disputes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62214/25]
View answerWritten answers
The purpose of The Industrial Relations (Provisions in Respect of Pension Entitlements of Retired Workers) Bill 2021 is to amend and extend certain rights and protections for retired persons and representative associations in the context of industrial relations and trade disputes.
Specifically, it proposes amendments to the Trade Union Acts 1871 to 1990, the Industrial Relations Acts 1946 to 2019, and the Pensions Act 1990. The Bill seeks to enhance the representation of retired workers in the administration of certain pension schemes and to address related matters.
Progress report
• February 2021: The Bill was introduced in the House and its principles were debated.
• 2022: The Bill passed its Second Stage in Dáil Éireann.
• 2023: The Bill underwent and passed scrutiny.
• November 2024: The Bill lapsed following the dissolution of the 33rd Dáil.
• May 1, 2025: The Bill was reinstated by the 34th Dáil and referred to Committee Stage.
The Bill is currently at Committee Stage in the legislative process.
The Government does not support the Private Members’ Bill in its current form. The proposed amendments are considered to fundamentally undermine the core principles of industrial relations, which are inherently based on the relationship between workers and their employers.
My Department's position was clearly articulated in a comprehensive briefing submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment, following its public scrutiny session held on 25 January 2023.
My Department’s position is that any amendment to the legislation governing the rights of retired persons is not an industrial relations issue but is a matter for the Department of Social Protection.