Written Answers Nos. 41-60
41. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the measures introduced to assist SMEs on opportunities presented by artificial intelligence for business growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62011/25]
View answerThe Government is firmly committed to unlocking the vast economic opportunities that Artificial Intelligence presents for our businesses, including SMEs.
We have delivered a wide range of enterprise supports, particularly for SMEs:
• The Grow Digital Voucher offers up to €5,000 to small businesses (under 50 employees) to adopt digital tools such as AI, e-commerce, cybersecurity and website development.
• The Digital for Business consultancy scheme is a free service which connects businesses with expert digital advisors to assess their needs and develop tailored plans.
• The Grow Digital Portal showcases success stories from non-tech businesses embracing digital and AI transformation to demonstrate the benefits of AI for various sectors and types of business.
• Ireland's four European Digital Innovation Hubs (Dublin, Cork, Mullingar and Sligo) help SMEs and public bodies adopt key technologies: AI, cybersecurity and high-performance computing.
The National Digital and AI Strategy is currently being updated, and my Department is leading on the Enterprise Pillar. We will have a key focus on empowering businesses, especially SMEs, to adopt AI to boost their productivity, drive efficiencies, and enhance competitiveness.
This year I launched the Charter for Digital Inclusion, a set of commitments to which business and other organisations can sign up, to contribute to bridging the digital gap by promoting basic digital skills, building awareness and helping people and businesses get online and to adopt digital and AI technology. An important focus of the Charter is a call to action for larger businesses to support SMEs in adopting digital technologies—and just as importantly, to work with communities and citizens to improve access to technologies and digital skills.
In addition, the recently published Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity includes eight measures specifically related to AI and digital adoption. These strategic actions will ensure Irish enterprises can adapt, thrive and lead in the digital age.
42. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he is aware of the growing number of retail outlets establishing themselves across the country which are selling products without adhering to the required regulatory guidelines; if his Department has carried out any review or assessment of compliance levels within such outlets; the enforcement measures currently in place to ensure that products offered for sale meet safety, consumer protection and public health standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60925/25]
View answerI acknowledge the concerns raised in relation to the compliance of certain retail outlets with the relevant regulatory standards.
In Ireland, there are several designated Market Surveillance Authorities (MSAs) responsible for assessing the regulatory compliance of products sold in retail outlets. Their remit includes product safety, consumer protection, and public health standards. The primary MSAs under the remit of my Department involved in this work include the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), and the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI).
The CCPC, for example, is responsible for ensuring that a wide range of products sold in Ireland meet specific regulations. This includes toys, domestic gas and electrical appliances, consumer personal protective equipment (PPE), and general consumer products such as baby soothers, furniture, and children’s clothing. CCPC product safety experts investigate consumer complaints about alleged non-compliant and unsafe products and work with manufacturers, importers, distributors, Customs, and other EU product safety authorities to protect consumers.
The CCPC proactively inspects businesses, including both online and physical retail outlets, to assess compliance with applicable product safety legislation. These inspections are risk-based and may result in the removal of non-compliant products from sale. The CCPC also undertakes proactive market surveillance, including laboratory testing of products. Where products fail safety testing, the CCPC engages with relevant supply chain actors to ensure proportionate actions are taken, such as product withdrawal, recall, or destruction.
While my department has not conducted a formal review, it works closely with the CCPC and other MSAs who carry out regular compliance assessments. Enforcement mechanisms available to MSAs include Compliance Notices, Prohibition Orders, Fixed Payment Notices, and on-the-spot fines, depending on the nature and severity of the non-compliance.
This Government remains committed to ensuring that all consumer products available on the Irish market meet the highest standards of safety, consumer protection, and public health, and will continue to support the work of the relevant authorities in this regard.
43. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps he will take to protect the estimated 30 percent of Irish workers whose jobs could be replaced by AI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62273/25]
View answerArtificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative force that holds immense potential for our economy and society. Harnessing the benefits of AI is essential for Ireland to future-proof our industries and remain globally competitive.
Equally, AI is a disruptive technology and I am acutely aware of the concerns regarding the impact of AI on the labour market. Much of the independent research available to date indicates that AI has been augmenting rather than replacing jobs.
The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) report ‘AI and the Irish labour market’ (November 2025) found that Ireland’s enterprise sector and workforce are adapting rapidly to AI, with strong demand for AI skills matched by solid supply. However, as the report rightly notes, Government must continue to monitor and address any risks AI may pose to our workforce.
My Department, with the ESRI and the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, is undertaking research on the potential impacts of AI on key sectors of the Irish economy. The final report, due to be published in 2026, will help to inform evidence-based policymaking and ensure Ireland remains competitive and resilient in the face of rapid technological change.
What is clear is that development of new capabilities and capacities in the workforce will be necessary as it is very likely that new types of jobs will emerge.
Government’s priority is to ensure our workers are reskilled and upskilled as the demand for new skills sets emerges. CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for AI, supports companies in talent and workforce development. Springboard+ 2025 programmes offer thousands of free or subsidised higher education places, enabling individuals to upskill in areas such as AI and cybersecurity. Skillnet Ireland is also helping businesses to address skills needs in AI.
Finally, the recently published Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity includes a strategic action to establish an AI Observatory, to provide real-time data and insights on AI metrics, such as labour market dynamics and skills needs. This would greatly assist government to develop national AI and jobs policy in the years ahead. This proposal is in the very early stages of initial scoping and it will take some time to fully develop a plan.
44. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether his Department will consider legislating for workers' wages to be protected in situations where they are unable to access their workplace due to severe weather events, as happened during storm Éowyn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62289/25]
View answerAt times of severe weather events, it is important that employees and employers make decisions in the interest of individual and public safety, in line with Government weather warnings and advice.
Helping to ensure that Irish workplaces are healthy and safe is a key priority for my Department. Having a strong occupational health and safety regulatory framework is vital in this regard and the work of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is central to this.
The HSA’s role in regulating and promoting work-related safety, health and welfare extends to all workplaces, indoors and outdoors. Employers must assess the various health and safety risks associated with their workplace, including those arising from excessive heat, storms, and driving for work.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 obliges employers to carry out a risk assessment, identifying the hazards in the place of work under their control, assess the risks presented by the hazard and to put in place measures to protect workers against those risks.
The HSA offers a range of guidance on its website on conducting written risk assessments and on practices to prevent and control them, including for excessive workplace temperatures, driving for work and various work activity types.
The HSA also participate in the National Emergency Co-ordination Group who distribute messaging on extreme weather events. The Authority are proactive in issuing relevant safety alerts and reminders to workplaces when there are extreme weather events.
Ireland has a robust suite of employment rights legislation in place to protect and support workers. The Payment of Wages Act 1991, as amended, establishes a range of rights for all employees in relation to the payment of wages. The Act regulates how wages and salaries are paid and what deductions may be made from same.
Failing to pay all or part of an employee’s wages, without lawful reason, is considered an unlawful deduction under the 1991 Act. If an employee believes that their employer has made an unlawful deduction from their pay, then they may refer a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission.
If a business remains open during a severe weather event and the employer requires staff to attend the workplace, there is no statutory obligation for those workers who feel they cannot make the journey to be paid. However, employers and employees may have relevant clauses in individual contracts.
There are no current plans to introduce further protections to the Payment of Wages Act 1991, in relation to severe weather events of this nature at this time.
Remote working became a new norm for many employers and employees in the wake of the Covid pandemic. While it is not possible for all employees to work remotely, employers should consider all available options at the time of a weather event that may affect public safety. The right to request a remote working arrangement was introduced for all employees through the Work Life Balance Act in March 2024. The legislation is accompanied by a Code of Practice, which was developed in consultation with the social partners.
45. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps he is taking to implement the Competitiveness and Productivity Action Plan goal of improved and more targeted funding for the adoption of AI and digital tools under the enterprise pillar of the new National Digital and AI Strategy; the metrics his Department will use to measure the success of these policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61891/25]
View answerThe Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity will be overseen by a Senior Officials Group, to ensure robust cross-departmental oversight and strategic alignment. A key element of the Plan is to accelerate digital transformation and AI adoption in all enterprises. This will be central to the enterprise pillar of the updated National Digital and AI Strategy, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Key strategic actions will include:
• A dual approach strategy to support both foundational digital adoption for traditional SMEs and advanced AI enablement for technology-native firms.
• A review of the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) digital supports, “Digital for Business” and “Grow Digital Voucher” will be undertaken to assess their effectiveness.
• Raising awareness and promoting the range of digitalisation assistance provided by the LEOs, European Digital Innovation Hubs, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland to drive digital transformation in industry.Raising awareness of the full potential of digital and AI tools among SMEs will be at the heart of our approach. Working with partners including business representative groups we will launch a Nationwide AI and Digital literacy campaign over the coming months.
• Ongoing investment to ensure that grant programmes remain available. Since 2022, Enterprise Ireland has approved €58.1 million in funding through the Digital Transition Fund for 926 projects across 694 clients. The Digital Transition Fund concludes in 2026, but Government will continue to fund the underlying schemes.
In addition, my Department will establish the National AI Office of Ireland by August 2026 which will provide a focal point for the promotion and adoption of transparent and safe AI in Ireland, to ensure that we fully capture the strategic opportunity that AI presents.
The number of enterprises accessing the various funding and support programmes will be closely monitored by the agencies. Ireland’s progress will also be measured under the EU Digital Decade framework, which sets targets to 2030 for enterprise digitalisation. Monitoring will include the annual State of the Digital Decade report and DESI (Digital Economy and Society Index). More detailed analysis from the CSO Information Society Statistics will also be captured.
46. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on efforts by his Department to encourage greater collective bargaining coverage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62174/25]
View answerThis Government fully supports Ireland's voluntarist model of collective bargaining, which has served us well in terms of minimising industrial unrest and maximising stability. I, along with my colleague Minister Peter Burke published a new Action Plan to promote collective bargaining on 5 November 2025. This Action Plan delivers on a key Programme for Government commitment and aligns with Article 4 of the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages.
The Deputy may be aware that, following the ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union on 11 November 2025, Article 4 of the Directive remains intact, while part of Article 5 has been annulled.
The Action Plan was developed through close collaboration with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and Ibec, reflecting a strong partnership approach. It represents a comprehensive strategy to reinforce Ireland’s long-standing tradition of voluntary industrial relations.
The plan introduces practical and targeted measures to empower, promote, and safeguard collective bargaining, contributing to fairer, more productive, and resilient workplaces across the country.
Structured around five strategic pillars, the action plan sets out 22 specific actions. These actions will commence between 2026 and 2029, with some actions that will be ongoing. The action plan and the timeframe for the actions are available to view on the Department of Enterprise's website.
The plan will be implemented in partnership with social partners and overseen by the Technical Subgroup of the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). A mid-term review in 2028 will ensure the plan remains responsive to evolving labour market conditions.
47. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on plans to promote and develop marine and coastal tourism in Dublin Bay north, including initiatives to support local tour operators and local businesses that rely on seasonal visitor traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62163/25]
View answerAt 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.
Fáilte Ireland is actively promoting and developing marine and coastal tourism in Dublin Bay North through a range of strategic initiatives. The Dublin Coastal Trail, launched in 2022, provides a flagship framework to showcase Dublin’s coastline from Skerries to Killiney. There are currently 11 stops on the Trail, with a further five planned, extending to Balbriggan, Donabate, Clontarf, Dublin Port and Blackrock, and integrating the new Dublin Port Greenway. This expansion will further enhance visitor orientation and encourage the dispersal of seasonal traffic across coastal communities.
Through the Destination Towns Scheme, Fáilte Ireland has invested in Skerries in partnership with Fingal County Council. The St. Patrick’s Way & Art Trail, developed between 2020–2023, enriches the visitor experience with a 5km walking route linking Skerries Mills, South Strand, North Beach and the town centre. Map boards and information points highlight the town’s historical, natural and cultural gems, strengthening its appeal as a coastal destination.
Work has also commenced on the Dublin Coast Destination & Experience Development Plan (DEDP). The plan is being developed in close collaboration with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Fingal County Council, Dublin City Council, key agencies, tourism businesses and community stakeholders. The DEDP will provide a strategic framework to grow marine and coastal tourism, strengthen seasonal visitor flows, and empower local operators to deliver distinctive experiences.
Importantly, Fáilte Ireland is a named partner in the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere, ensuring that tourism growth is aligned with sustainability and environmental stewardship. Fáilte Ireland continues to invest in seasonal events such as NYF in Howth and the Home of Halloween Fingal Hub, which drive off-season tourism and provide direct support to local businesses. Fáilte Ireland also offers tailored brand toolkits, marketing resources and business-to-business promotional content designed to empower local tour operators and small enterprises to create and showcase memorable visitor experiences that drive regional tourism growth. Together, these initiatives represent a comprehensive programme to grow marine and coastal tourism in Dublin Bay North, while empowering local businesses and operators to sustain long-term regional growth and deliver memorable visitor experiences.
In line with the Government’s commitment under the Programme for Government, I will officially launch Ireland’s new National Tourism Policy Statement in early December.
The new policy will prioritise increasing visitor numbers, boosting revenue, and supporting employment. It will place a strong emphasis on SMEs, sustainability, and digital transformation. It will also reinforce tourism’s role in balanced regional development, with an emphasis on marine and coastal tourism. This includes targeted investment in regional tourism infrastructure, support for regenerative tourism projects, and initiatives to promote Ireland’s diverse tourism destinations.
Building on the objectives of the 2024 Tourism Policy Framework, the Statement will retain a strong focus on sustainability while responding to the Government’s broader ambition to diversify Ireland’s tourism offering and source markets. It will place the competitiveness of SMEs at the heart of our developmental approach, ensuring the sector continues to contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s economy. This Government is committed to growing and strengthening Ireland’s tourism industry. Through the implementation of the new National Policy Statement, we will showcase Ireland as a high-quality and accessible destination for both domestic and overseas visitors.
48. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when he anticipates scoping research will conclude and a pilot regarding taking collective bargaining into account for public procurement will begin, as laid out in the Action Plan on Collective Bargaining; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62290/25]
View answerOn 5 November 2025, I along, with my colleague Minister Peter Burke launched Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining, this is a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s well-established system of voluntary industrial relations.
The Action Plan introduces a series of practical measures to empower, promote, and safeguard collective bargaining, with the overarching goal of fostering fair, productive, and resilient workplaces.
It outlines 22 targeted actions across five strategic pillars, reflecting a whole-of-system approach to enhancing collective bargaining in Ireland.
Action 1 is to Undertake comprehensive research into the coverage and impact of collective bargaining within the Irish context. This includes the development of case studies and an assessment of both the direct and indirect costs and benefits associated with reducing industrial disputes through collective bargaining.
Research is scheduled to commence in November 2025 and conclude by March 2026.
Action 6 is to conduct exploratory research, including a Regulatory Impact Assessment and SME Test, to examine the feasibility of introducing a pilot initiative that would incorporate collectively bargained agreements as a weighting factor in public procurement processes.
Research is expected to begin in Q3 2026 and conclude by Q3 2029.
The Action Plan will be implemented in close collaboration with Ireland’s social partners and will be overseen by the Technical Subgroup of the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). A mid-term review in 2028 will ensure the Plan remains responsive to evolving labour market dynamics and continues to deliver on its objectives.
49. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when a new Southwest Regional Enterprise Plan will be brought forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62274/25]
View answerBalanced 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 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.
50. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether ending the voluntary system of industrial relations was considered for inclusion in the Action Plan on Collective Bargaining; the reasons for not including it as a measure or goal of the plan, given that it is frequently cited as a key barrier to greater collective bargaining coverage and better workplace relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62286/25]
View answerIt has been the consistent policy of successive Irish governments to promote collective bargaining through the development of an institutional framework supportive of a voluntary system of industrial relations, premised upon freedom of contract and freedom of association.
The collective bargaining system is underpinned by a range of statutory provisions designed to facilitate and assist the voluntary bargaining process, including the provision of the independent services of the Workplace Relations Commission and of the Labour Court.
Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining, is an initiative that reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening the industrial relations framework and enhancing the quality of working life across the country.
The Action Plan has been developed by the Department in close consultation with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Ibec, the plan also reflects Ireland’s commitment to fostering fair, inclusive, and productive workplaces.
Irelands Action plan promotes collective bargaining and sets out 22 targeted actions across five key pillars, this includes,
Empowering and Encouraging participation via capacity-building programmes and recognition initiatives.
Protecting the rights of workers and trade union representatives through legal reviews and will empower, promote, protect and support the industrial relations framework in Ireland for employers and workers alike.
Ireland’s success has long been built on collaboration between government, employers and workers.
51. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on his Department’s new Statement of Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62275/25]
View answerMy Department’s Statement of Strategy for 2025-2028 was published on 17th October 2025. It sets out a path to drive competitiveness, sustainability and prosperity over the next three years.
The new strategy comprises six cross-cutting goals aimed at strengthening Ireland’s position as a leading location to work, do business and visit. It places a strong emphasis on innovation, digitalisation, decarbonisation and infrastructure, while also recognising the vital role of tourism as a key economic driver. It was developed further to extensive consultations to seek the views of staff, stakeholders, other departments, State bodies and the general public on the direction, priorities and goals for the Department over the coming years.
The ambitions of the Programme for Government are integral to this strategy, with an objective to ensure that Ireland continues to build on its strengths, as an open economy with strong tourism, trade and foreign direct investment, a vibrant innovation ecosystem, and a resilient labour market.
My Department, its Offices and Agencies will work collaboratively with colleagues across Government, business, employer and worker representatives, other stakeholders and at EU and international level to achieve our strategic goals. Our progress will be reported through my Department’s Annual Report, the Public Sector Performance report, as part of our indicators under the Revised Estimates Volume and through our Data Dashboard which can be accessed on our website [www.enterprise.gov.ie].
52. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an overview of the microenterprise loan fund scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62075/25]
View answer53. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the position regarding Ireland’s competitiveness relative to other EU countries; his views on whether our competitiveness is sufficient in that context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62020/25]
View answerIreland currently holds a strong competitive position globally. This is reflected in our current position as the 7th most competitive country in the latest IMD World Competitiveness Rankings. Among EU member states specifically, Ireland ranks 2nd.
Our strong performance is underpinned by several key factors, including a highly skilled workforce, strong economic growth, and success in attracting foreign direct investment in high-value sectors. Nonetheless, we cannot be complacent, as our overall ranking has fallen by five places over the past two years. There are significant challenges to our international competitiveness performance, and it is important that we do not take our strengths for granted.
In a rapidly changing and uncertain international environment, it is fundamental that we take action to address long-standing legacy issues as well as emerging threats to our competitiveness performance. In other words, we must focus on “controlling the controllables”. Persistent high costs related to energy, labour, and regulatory compliance continue to challenge the competitiveness of businesses. Ireland’s rapid expansion has also exposed constraints in the country’s physical infrastructure capacity, and structural barriers to continued rapid economic development.
In response to international economic developments, and in line with a commitment in the Programme for Government, this Government expedited the preparation of an Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity. The Action Plan was published on the 10th of September.
The Plan reflects a whole-of-government approach to the domestic drivers of competitiveness, focusing on areas firmly within our national control. Its development has been informed by extensive consultation across Government Departments, and with external stakeholders, including a series of bilateral engagements with key Government partners, including in the areas of infrastructure, housing, research, and innovation.
Crucially, the Action Plan is guided by the analysis of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, included in the Council’s annual Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge report. This evidenced-based input was vital to ensuring that actions are targeted, proportionate and future-facing.
Overall, the Action Plan contains 85 actions for enhancing Ireland’s competitiveness and productivity performance, with 26 of these identified as priority actions, and covers 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. To ensure accountability, each action has been assigned to a government department or agency, which will have responsibility for its delivery within a specified time-period.
While Ireland remains highly competitive by international standards, the overarching objective of the Action Plan is to safeguard and strengthen this position by enhancing productivity, deepening the resilience of the economy, building on existing strengths, supporting the growth of indigenous enterprise, and continuing to attract investment and talent from abroad.
54. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will commit to expanding Microfinance Ireland lending limits to reflect current cost structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62016/25]
View answer55. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on the State's efforts to develop industrial enterprise on the former Defence Forces firing range lands at Oranmore, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62173/25]
View answerDuring the lifetime of if its current 2025-2029 strategy, the IDA’s existing Regional Property Programme will deliver 23 projects across 21 locations in 8 regions, primarily manufacturing buildings. The IDA will also continue to invest in its existing property portfolio, including landbanks, business and industrial parks.
This ongoing work is being augmented by the Programme for Government commitment to the development of Next Generation Sites - or NGS - to allow Ireland remain competitive as a potential location for further large-scale, high-value manufacturing opportunities such as major semiconductor and biopharma investments, given the increased level of competition for such valuable FDI. This approach will be “plan-led”, streamlining development and reducing planning risks through the provision of pre-permitted, utility-intensive sites, enabling swift development and certainty for investors.
Each site will be developed in stages, over a number of years, to facilitate incremental investment in the necessary infrastructure. Funding for land acquisition for the first two sites – planned for the West and East of the country - is coming from my Department’s capital allocation under the revised NDP. A third site is planned for the South in future years.
Each NGS development will be undertaken in consultation with Local Authorities as we aim to develop sites of either 1,000 or 500-600 acres, and the identification of suitable lands in each case is a matter for the IDA. I am currently consulting with Government colleagues on various aspects of the initiative, and I expect to be in a position to formally announce further detail in the months ahead. In this regard, I am not in a position to discuss specific site possibilities at this time.
56. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the supports available to SMEs in view of the increase of cost of business, especially regarding the minimum wage and auto enrolment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61997/25]
View answerThe Government recognises that the cost of doing business has been an issue for firms in recent years, arising from both the wider inflationary trends as well as Government mandated changes. 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 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. 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.
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 in June with representatives in attendance from across Ireland’s enterprise sector and joined by officials from a variety of State Agencies, Regulators, and Government Departments. 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 Government agreed to increase the National Minimum Wage. 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 adjust the implementation timeline for 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.
Budget 2026 provided an overall package of €9.4 billion. €8.1 billion has been provided for public spending and €1.3 billion for new tax measures. Measures aimed specifically at developing enterprise and supporting SMEs account for c.€531 million of the cost of the Budget Package and include a reduction in the Hospitality VAT rate from 13.5% to 9% (from 1 July 2025); an increase in the CGT Revised Entrepreneur Relief lifetime limit from €1m to €1.5m; and 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.
I would also encourage any small business owners looking to avail of government support to consult the National Enterprise Hub which launched in July 2024. This Enterprise Hub has been designed as an entry point to aid business owners find relevant supports and help for their business.
57. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the progress being made in examining the role of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in protecting and enhancing consumer protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62153/25]
View answerThe Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) continues to play a vital and evolving role in safeguarding consumer rights and promoting fair competition in Ireland. As an independent statutory body under the remit of my Department, the CCPC enforces consumer protection legislation across a wide range of sectors, including goods, services, product safety, and digital markets. The CCPC also plays a key role in consumer education and advocacy. Its remit has expanded significantly in recent years, reflecting both domestic legislative reform and new EU obligations.
I’m pleased to be in a position to report on progress made by the CCPC. Just this week, my Department took a Memo for the Information of the Government providing an update on progress made in strengthening competition and consumer protection, in line with both commitment from the Programme for Government and actions from the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity relating to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC).
I’d like to highlight the measures undertaken by my Department to strengthen the CCPC’s mandate through the addition to and enhancement of its senior leadership team whilst also working in tandem with a review of the current legislative framework.
A Periodic Critical Review (PCR) concluded that the CCPC is operating effectively, has sound internal governance and has demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in responding to a dynamic external environment.
Following on from the PCR, officials in my Department have worked closely with the CCPC to undertake a review of its senior leadership structure. As part of this, the senior executive capacity of the CCPC has been reinforced.
As such, my Department has recently appointed new Member of the CCPC, who will take up the position in January 2026. In addition, the recruitment of an additional member is ongoing, and the CCPC has recently commenced the recruitment of two Senior Directors who will have a direct role in supporting the Members of the CCPC to ensure it can continue to deliver on its important brief. These appointments will drive robust enforcement outcomes under the new administrative regime and enhance the CCPC’s influence in market reform and international engagement.
Aligning with the Government’s broader ambition to “control the controllables” and forming part of a suite of actions under the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity, which includes targeted reforms within the CCPC’s remit, my Department is undertaking a review of the current legislative framework governing consumer protection fines, with the objective of strengthening enforcement provisions and ensuring greater deterrence against breaches.
It is envisaged that future penalties will be aligned with those applicable to competition law infringements, thereby enhancing consistency and impact across the regulatory landscape.
These actions aim to simplify regulatory processes, strengthen domestic competition, and reinforce Ireland’s consumer protection regime—ensuring a fairer, more transparent marketplace that supports both economic resilience and consumer confidence. By ensuring that all businesses operate to the same high standards, stronger enforcement also helps maintain a level playing field—supporting fair competition and rewarding compliant, consumer-focused firms.
These ongoing actions underscore both my and this Government’s commitment to supporting the CCPC’s mandate in safeguarding consumer rights and promoting fair competition in Ireland.
58. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the interaction his Department has had with other Government Departments about plans to increase the level of supports available to entrepreneurs with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62175/25]
View answer59. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on IDA activity in Kilkenny and Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62043/25]
View answerRegional 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.
The South-East has a significant ecosystem of well-established companies across Technology, Life Sciences, International Financial Services, Engineering & Industrial Technologies, which are complemented by research centres that help win new business and assist existing client companies with transformation. The FDI performance in the region has been strong over the past five years with employment among IDA clients increasing by 15%. To support the South-East region, IDA Ireland operates an office in the city of Waterford, working closely with local stakeholders, including City and County Councils, to attract new investment across the region which includes Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford.
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, through its Regional Property Programme aims to address regional market failure through investment in land, buildings and essential infrastructure in regional locations as required by current and prospective clients of IDA as well as those of Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices.
IDA Ireland also continues to maintain a focus on land-banks and strategic sites to future proof the ability of the property portfolio to support the project pipeline, and on that basis actively engages with local authorities including Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils, consultants, agents, utility providers and with the private sector in the South-East region in the marketing of appropriate and cost-effective property solutions.
In Kilkenny, IDA Ireland has a Business & Technology Park in Loughboy, an Industrial Estate in Purcellsinch and a Strategic Site in Belview. In Carlow the IDA has lands in Carlow and Bagnelstown. As the Deputy will know, IDA has made a significant investment in Carlow during their last strategy, 2021-2024, with the completion of an ABS - or Advanced Business Solution - in the business park, which is actively being marketed.
There continues to be good interest in companies visiting both Carlow and Kilkenny. There has been a consistent increase in visits since 2022. Details of site visits to Carlow and Kilkenny up to the first half of 2025 are shown in the table below:
|
- |
To end Q2 2025 |
2024 |
2023 |
2022 |
2021 |
|
Carlow |
2 |
6 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
|
Kilkenny |
3 |
8 |
10 |
3 |
6 |
I should point out that site visits are one measure only of a company’s interest in a particular location and may not necessarily be a true measure of the overall level of foreign direct investment (FDI) activity in a region or county. For example, almost 70% of FDI won by IDA Ireland comes from its existing client base, rather than new companies and potential clients usually visit more than one county and may return to a location more than once.
With a clear focus on regional development, a strong pipeline of investment, and collaborative local partnerships, IDA Ireland is positioning Kilkenny and Carlow and the wider the South-East Region as a competitive and attractive destination for global investors, however, ultimately, individual companies determine where to locate their investments rather than the IDA.
60. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the powers he plans to grant to the new National AI Office; the way in which he plans to structure engagement between the office and industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61890/25]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware the establishment of the AI Office of Ireland is a strategic initiative to act as the central co-ordinating body for the implementation of the EU AI Act in Ireland and to provide a focal point for the promotion and adoption of transparent and safe AI in Ireland, to ensure that we fully capture the strategic opportunity that AI presents.
The newly to be established AI Office of Ireland will act as the central coordinating authority for the AI Act in Ireland and in doing so will:
• Co-ordinate Competent Authority activities to ensure consistent implementation of the EU AI Act.
• Serve as the Single Point of Contact for the EU AI Act.
• Facilitate centralised access to technical expertise by the other competent authorities, as required.
• Drive AI innovation and adoption through the hosting of a regulatory sandbox, and act as a focal point for AI in Ireland, encompassing regulation, innovation and deployment.
Currently, my officials are developing the General Scheme of the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence. This General Scheme will provide for the implementation and enforcement of the EU AI Act at national level in domestic legislation, including the establishment of the AI Office of Ireland as an independent statutory entity. It is my intention to bring this General scheme to Government within the coming weeks.
As part of the commitment under the EU AI Act each Member State must designate a Single Point of Contact. In this regard the Single Point of Contact for Ireland has been established within my Department until the AI office is established. Key functions of this Single Point of Contact will be to streamline coordination between the various Irish regulators, the European Commission, and stakeholders for the AI Act; and deliver an education, engagement and outreach programme with all key stakeholders including industry. A dedicated AI unit within my Department performs this this role on an administrative basis, pending the formal establishment of the statutory body through primary legislation.
