Written Answers Nos. 270-290
270. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to consider reimplementing the Public Sector Single Pension Scheme for uniformed services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33311/26]
View answerThe Single Scheme is a statutory Public Service Career-Average Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. It was established under the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012.
The provisions of the Single Scheme are clearly set out in law. All new-entrant public servants hired after 1 January 2013 are members of the Single Scheme. This includes uniformed members in An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, full-time Firefighters and Prison Officers.
The introduction of the Single Scheme is central to ensuring the long-term sustainability of public service pensions, particularly in the context of improved life expectancy and rising public service employee numbers. The most recent valuation of the State’s Accrued Liability in respect of public service retirement benefits calculates the overall liability to be €175.7bn, which is payable over the next 70 years or so. The annual pension bill for the public service is currently at €5.3bn; this is projected to increase to a peak of €9.8bn in 2055.
Despite the broader trend in the private sector towards closing defined benefit schemes, the Single Scheme remains a defined benefit pension arrangement, albeit based on career-average remuneration.
Uniformed members - Firefighters, Prison Officers, Gardaí and the Defence Forces - have enhanced benefits that other Single Scheme members do not have. These members accrue benefits at a faster rate due to their earlier Mandatory Retirement Age.
In 2024, in recognition of individuals seeking to work longer, Government enacted legislation to permit Uniformed staff to remain in service until age 62, should they wish to. This move allows members to build-up a higher pension than previously, increasing the final value of their Single Scheme pension. On retirement, subject to having reached their Normal Retirement Age, members receive their Single Scheme pension and lump sum immediately. The issue of mandatory retirement ages for the Defence Forces, Gardaí, Prison Service and Firefighters is firstly a matter for the relevant line Departments.
There are no plans at this time to review the Single Scheme, including the Fast Accrual elements. Occupational Supplementary Pensions (OSPs) are not a feature of the Single Scheme and were not envisaged to be.
271. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Carlow in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33335/26]
View answerThe Office of Public Works is a key service provider to Government, managing the State's estate portfolio, maintaining and presenting Ireland's built heritage, and leading the State's flood risk management function. Under the current National Development Plan, the OPW has secured a record allocation of €1.845 billion, encompassing flood risk management, State property management, and the conservation of heritage assets in support of regional tourism. The OPW's capital programmes is therefore one of the most geographically distributed and functionally diverse in the public service, with works delivered in every county.
Under Estate Management, the OPW is responsible for the maintenance, refurbishment, and development of government properties, including offices, Garda stations, and other public service buildings. This includes energy efficiency upgrades and compliance with health and safety and climate obligations. New construction and fit-outs are also undertaken to meet evolving service needs, alongside property acquisitions and disposals as required.
Across the OPW estate ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure that public assets remain safe, functional, and efficient. Regular maintenance activities often identify areas where more substantial interventions are needed, leading to planned preventative capital works. These projects are designed to proactively address emerging issues, extend the lifespan of assets, and optimise their performance. By integrating insights from ongoing maintenance into capital planning, the OPW ensures that resources are used effectively and future risks are minimised.
The OPW’s capital investment in County Carlow encompasses the three core pillars: Estate Management, Heritage Services, and Flood Risk Management. Under Estate Management the Capital projects in excess of €200,000 completed by Estate Management in Carlow in the last five years include facilities upgrades at Carlow Garda Station.
Through Heritage Services, the OPW has carried out conservation-led capital works to protect and present nationally significant sites in State care within Carlow, such as Altmont Gardens. These works include structural conservation and repairs, improvements to visitor infrastructure, and enhanced interpretation and presentation. Examples of significant capital projects in this area include the waste water enhancement works at Altmont Gardens completed 5 years ago.
Flood Risk Management remains a central focus, with the OPW working in partnership with Carlow County Council to advance major flood relief schemes and related works. Notable efforts include the Carlow Flood Relief Scheme and other projects at at-risk locations. These initiatives are supported by substantial Government investment, as reflected in the €6.6 million OPW funding announced last week for local authorities to deliver interim flood measures. The OPW has awarded a contract to produce a Scheme Climate Change Adaptation Plan (SCCAP) for the existing Carlow Flood Relief Scheme.
Should you, Deputy, have a particular capital project in mind or wish to discuss any aspect of our planned preventative works in greater detail, I would welcome the opportunity to engage directly. Please feel free to contact me so we can address your specific interests and ensure your concerns are fully considered.
272. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will provide a list of all capital projects delivered under the National Development Plan and otherwise within the remit of his Department, including the Office of Public Works, which have been completed on time and within budget in Kilkenny in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33336/26]
View answerThe Office of Public Works is a key service provider to Government, managing the State's estate portfolio, maintaining and presenting Ireland's built heritage, and leading the State's flood risk management function. Under the current National Development Plan, the OPW has secured a record allocation of €1.845 billion, encompassing flood risk management, State property management, and the conservation of heritage assets in support of regional tourism. The OPW's capital programme is therefore one of the most geographically distributed and functionally diverse in the public service, with works delivered in every county.
Under Estate Management, the OPW is responsible for the maintenance, refurbishment, and development of government properties, including offices, Garda stations, and other public service buildings. This includes energy efficiency upgrades and compliance with health and safety and climate obligations. New construction and fit-outs are also undertaken to meet evolving service needs, alongside property acquisitions and disposals as required.
Across the OPW estate ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure that public assets remain safe, functional, and efficient. Regular maintenance activities often identify areas where more substantial interventions are needed, leading to planned preventative capital works. These projects are designed to proactively address emerging issues, extend the lifespan of assets, and optimise their performance. By integrating insights from ongoing maintenance into capital planning, the OPW ensures that resources are used effectively and future risks are minimised.
With regard to capital projects completed by Estate Management in the last five years in Kilkenny, some examples are, Thomastown Garda Station Cell upgrade, Kilkenny Government Office Fire upgrade and roof repairs works, Bennetsbridge Garda Station roof.
Heritage Services projects focus on the conservation, restoration, and presentation of nationally significant sites such as Kilkenny Castle and Jerpoint Abbey. These works include structural repairs, preservation of architectural features, enhancement of visitor facilities, and archaeological investigations. The OPW’s efforts ensure that heritage assets are protected and accessible, supporting both cultural preservation and regional tourism. Recent capital projects include the window replacement at Kilkenny Castle and site safety enhancement at Dunmore Caves. Please find list attached in tabular form as requested.
Flood Risk Management is another core pillar, with the OPW leading the planning and delivery of flood relief schemes in conjunction with the local authorities. In Kilkenny, this includes major flood defence infrastructure and collaboration with Kilkenny County Council to protect communities from flood risks. The work in this area is vital for the protection of property and public safety. Much of the major capital projects work on the Flood side is ongoing including projects at Ballyhale, Graiguenamanagh-Tinnahinch, Piltown and Freshford. The Flood Risk Management County Summary provides updates and can be viewed at the following link by selecting Kilkenny: www.floodinfo.ie/county-summary/.
Should you, Deputy, have a particular capital project in mind or wish to discuss any aspect of our planned preventative works in greater detail, I would welcome the opportunity to engage directly. Please feel free to contact me so we can address your specific interests and ensure your concerns are fully considered.
|
Year |
Project Name ( Capital works over €0.2m) |
Status |
Delivered in line with Budget and timeline |
|
2022 |
Thomastown GS - Cell upgrade |
complete |
Yes |
|
2022 |
Kilkenny Castle - window replacement |
complete |
Yes |
|
2023 |
Kilkenny Government Offices -Fire upgrade works |
complete |
Yes |
|
2023 |
Bennetsbridge GS - roofworks |
complete |
Yes |
|
2023 |
Dunmore Cave - upgrade |
complete |
Yes |
|
2025 |
Kilkenny Government Offices - Repairs Block 1 & 2 |
complete - retention due |
Yes |
273. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide a detailed breakdown of all gifts received in his capacity as Minister; the nature of these gifts and potential monetary value; the procedures followed in accepting gifts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33386/26]
View answerI receive small tokens or gifts of limited value from time to time in my capacity as Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation following attendance and participation at events.
No gifts received to date have exceeded the limit as set out in Section 15 of the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995, and should that scenario ever arise, the provisions of the Act and of the Code of Conduct for Office Holders would be applied.
274. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the total amount invested in the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund; the amount of this fund invested in US government bonds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33444/26]
View answerThe Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund (ICNF) was valued at approximately €4.1 billion as of 31 December 2025. Detailed holdings as at 31 December 2025 have not yet been published and will be included in the NTMA’s Annual Report, which will be published in the coming months.
It is understood from the Department of Finance that as at 31st December 2024, the ICNF did not hold any US government bonds. During 2024, the ICNF was invested in accordance with an interim investment strategy which restricted investments to the following permitted euro-denominated assets:
Sovereign debt, limited to debt issued or guaranteed by a central government in the Euro-Area
Quasi-sovereign debt limited to:
Debt issued by a region, province, state or city
Debt issued by an international government organisation
Debt issued by a government agency, or supranational
Cash
A detailed schedule of investments held by the ICNF, as at 31 December 2024, is published in the NTMA’s 2024 Annual Report.
For further detailed queries on the investment of ICNF amounts, the Deputy is referred to the Department of Finance.
275. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide an update on the efforts being made to establish an EU pharmaceutical taskforce by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32941/26]
View answerResponsibility for Ireland’s engagement at EU level on the proposal to establish an EU pharmaceutical taskforce rests with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, who is leading on policy coordination and formal engagement with the European Commission.
In this context, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, together with the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, the Minister for Health, and myself, wrote to Executive Vice-President Šefcovic and Commissioner Várhelyi on 30 April 2026. This correspondence outlined Ireland’s support for the establishment of a structured dialogue or taskforce involving the Commission and Member States most impacted. The correspondence also highlighted the strategic importance of the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors, and the ongoing challenges in the current international trading environment, including US tariff announcements and the Section 232 investigation.
The proposal emphasises the role of the life sciences sector as a cornerstone of EU competitiveness, economic security, and public health resilience, and notes the potential value of a dedicated forum to complement wider EU initiatives such as the One Market Roadmap, the simplification agenda, the proposed European Biotech Act, and reforms to the medical devices framework.
While the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade continues to lead Ireland’s engagement at EU level, my Department is actively contributing within its area of responsibility, including through close coordination with industry stakeholders and across Government.
Ireland will continue to engage constructively with the European Commission and other Member State partners to advance this initiative and to support a robust, innovative and globally competitive EU pharmaceutical sector.
276. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for finance to clarify if a carer working 35 hours a week is entitled to receive the minimum wage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32972/26]
View answerThe National Minimum Wage was introduced by the National Minimum Wage Act 2000.
The National Minimum Wage Act 2000 provides for the determination of a national minimum hourly rate of pay for an employee where an employee is interpreted as a person of any age who has entered into, or works, or has worked under, a contract of employment with an employer.
The Act confers a statutory entitlement on employees, and a statutory obligation on employers in relation to the national minimum wage which is the legally binding lowest average hourly rate that can be paid by an employer to an employee. This rate applies to all employees, including full-time, part-time, temporary, and casual employees, with the following exceptions:
• Employees who are close relatives of the employer, where the employer is a Sole Trader, such as a spouse, civil partner, parent, step-parent, grandparent, child, step-child, grandchild, sibling or half-sibling of the employer;
• A craft apprentice within the meaning of the Industrial Training Act, 1967, or the Labour of Services Act, 1987.
The National Minimum Wage Act also provides for sub-minimum rates for those aged under 20.
Employees aged 18 and 19 are entitled to a sub-minimum rate of 80% and 90% of the full National Minimum Wage respectively. The sub-minimum rates for employees aged under 18 are set at 70% of the National Minimum Wage.
On January 1st 2026 the National Minimum Wage by €0.65 to €14.15 per hour, which represents a 4.8% increase.
277. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Government to confirm if his Department currently collects any data counting the number of short term lets in Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32995/26]
View answer278. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to confirm if his Department currently collects any data counting the number of short term lets in Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32996/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 277 and 278 together.
In April of last year, I obtained Government approval for the General Scheme of the Short-Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill. Once enacted, this Bill will provide a statutory framework for regulating the short-term letting (STL) sector, including the establishment of a national register.
The new Housing policy, proposed by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne T.D., and also approved by Government on 15 April 2025, proposes to generally preclude new planning permissions for STL in cities and larger towns. Further to this, on 9 February last, the Cabinet Committee on Housing proposed to apply this to towns and cities with populations over 20,000 persons at the latest census.
This agreement provided that, following the introduction of the STL register
• Accommodation providers based in towns with a population of 20,000 or less at the last census based on the census town boundaries defined by CSO will have two years to meet planning compliance requirements.
• Accommodation providers based in towns with a population of more than 20,000 at the last census will need to confirm planning compliance on registration with no further lead-in period if they wish to register with Failte Ireland.
• Existing rights will be recognised, allowing properties used for short-term letting for at least seven years without enforcement action to be eligible for registration.
• It will still be possible to sub-let an entire principal private residence on a short-term basis for a cumulative period of 90 days. Where the 90-day threshold is exceeded, planning permission for a change of use is required.
These policies are part of a broader Government strategy to tackle the housing shortage by ensuring that as many suitable properties as possible are available for long-term rental.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is drafting a National Planning Statement under the Planning and Development Act 2024. This will provide a clear overall policy approach both at national and local authority level to enable planning authorities to determine planning applications for short-term lets across the country.
Failte Ireland estimates that approximately 34,020 STL properties were advertised online in the State in October 2025 based on screen-scraped data from four major booking platforms. Up to 64% were listed as entire houses or apartments. This represents a 26% increase from an estimated 26,960 units in October 2022. The data-scraping exercise provides indicative data on a county basis only and does not differentiate between urban and rural areas or Gaeltacht areas.
The national STL register will be implemented and managed by Failte Ireland and will commence following the enactment of the necessary legislation. It will provide full oversight of the STL market and following its introduction it will be possible to identify the number of STL properties in Gaeltacht areas.
Tourism is a vital part of the Irish economy, supporting 227,000 jobs and generating €6 billion in 2024. I fully recognise concerns about the impact on rural tourism and local economies of reducing STL availability. The approach agreed on 9 February will balance housing supply needs with the need to protect rural and regional tourism and jobs. These concerns are being addressed through continued engagement with all stakeholders.
279. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide an update on the Industrial Relations Provisions in Respect of Pension Entitlements of Retired Workers Bill 2021 (details supplied). [33236/26]
View answerGovernment has agreed to my colleague, Minister Burke's recommendation that a money message not be issued in respect of the Industrial Relations (Provisions in Respect of Pension Entitlements of Retired Workers) Bill 2021 and that Government oppose the Private Members’ Bill by way of a reasoned response. This reasoned response has since been shared by my Department with the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.
While the policy concerns raised by retired workers are acknowledged and understood, a detailed assessment has indicated that the Bill would give rise to significant legal, structural, operational and financial implications which we cannot support. In particular, the proposals would have far-reaching consequences for the core architecture of the State’s industrial relations framework. In addition, the current legal structure provides adequate protection for retired workers, particularly concerning the potential reduction of benefits within funded defined benefit schemes. The measures outlined in this Bill could, moreover, severely undermine the existing dispute resolution bodies which are provided to retired workers to vindicate their rights including the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman.
280. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if the IDA have provided property grants to a firm (details supplied) for a project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31848/26]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that the named company is not a client of IDA Ireland, and IDA was not involved in this project.
281. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when the rationale for the current €40,000 minimum salary threshold for certain critical skills employment permit roles; and when this threshold was last reviewed. [31888/26]
View answerMy Department takes an integrated approach to addressing labour and skills shortages through reviews of the eligibility and criteria for employment permits, ongoing engagement with Government Departments, sector representatives, and research experts ensuring that the permits system remains responsive to current and emerging skills and workforce requirements.
These reviews are informed by labour market data, vacancy and earnings trends, analysis from relevant skills bodies, and submissions received from stakeholders. This includes research and analysis from bodies such as the SOLAS Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU), and the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN). The reasoning and decision making process in determining changes is overseen by the Interdepartmental Group on Economic Migration Policy which includes representatives of key policy government departments.
The employment permits system is grounded in legislation that sets clear and objective criteria for minimum salary thresholds, qualifications, and the eligibility of occupations. These criteria ensure that permits are issued only where there is a demonstrable shortage and that the system remains fair, transparent, and responsive to Ireland’s labour market needs.
In December 2025, my Department published the Employment Permits Minimum Annual Remuneration – Outcome of the Roadmap Review 2025. This sets out the policy rationale, evidence basis, and the revised phased roadmap for changes to the minimum salary thresholds applicable across the employment permits system. The review was undertaken in response to a range of structural changes in the labour market since minimum salary thresholds were last comprehensively updated, including changes to average earnings, rising costs of living and of doing business, and changing labour market dynamics. The review was also informed by a public consultation process which received over 150 submissions from employers, permit holders, trade unions and representative bodies, the views of which were carefully considered in shaping the review outcome.
From 1 March 2026, the minimum annual salary requirement is €40,904 for eligible roles on the Critical Skills Occupations List where the employee holds a relevant degree, and €68,911 for eligible occupations not on that list, with a lower threshold of €36,848 applying only in limited and clearly defined circumstances for recent graduates.
Sufficient remuneration thresholds operate as a key protection, ensuring that the recruitment of non-EEA nationals does not place downward pressure on wages or conditions, or undermine employment opportunities or career progression for those just entering, or already in the domestic workforce. Indexation linking employment permit salary thresholds to changes in average weekly earnings, will be integral to ensuring that these thresholds remain effective into the future.
Following the conclusion of the roadmap period, indexation will continue to apply on an annual basis across permit types providing a transparent and evidence-based mechanism for maintaining alignment with earnings trends.
282. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the assessment that has been undertaken regarding the impact of critical skills employment permit thresholds on wage levels, housing demand and labour market competition for younger workers. [31889/26]
View answerIreland’s employment permits system supports enterprise growth and economic activity, and is designed to strike an appropriate balance between facilitating access to international workers in key, high demand roles while maintaining safeguards for those in the domestic and EEA workforce.
The system targets skills shortages in sectors critical to competitiveness and growth by prioritising highly skilled occupations such as those in the science, medical, ICT, and engineering fields. Roles that are sufficiently served well through availability of workers in the domestic/EEA labour market pool are included on the Ineligible Occupations List.
The employment permits system is grounded in legislation that sets clear and objective criteria for minimum salary thresholds, qualifications, and the eligibility of occupations. These criteria ensure that permits are issued only where there is a demonstrable shortage and that the system remains fair, transparent, and responsive to Ireland’s labour market pressures while protecting the employment opportunities of those already in the State with the requisite skills.
Additionally, the recent increases to the minimum remuneration thresholds for employment permits also aims to improve the attractiveness of Ireland as a location for those with requisite skills in critical roles, recognising their valued contribution to the economy.
My Department takes an integrated approach to addressing labour and skills shortages and informing policy development by keeping eligible roles under review. The review process is a delicate balancing act, informed by labour market data, vacancy and earnings trends, and analysis from bodies such as the SOLAS Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU), and the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN). The reasoning and decision-making process in determining changes is overseen by the Interdepartmental Group on Economic Migration Policy which includes representatives of key policy Government Departments, including the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
The Employment Permits Minimum Annual Remuneration – Outcome of the Roadmap Review 2025 was published in December 2025. This sets out the policy rationale, evidence basis, and the revised phased roadmap for implementation of the minimum salary thresholds applicable across the employment permits system. The review was undertaken in response to a range of structural changes in the labour market since minimum salary thresholds were last comprehensively updated, including changes to average earnings, rising costs of living and of doing business, and changing labour market dynamics. The review was also informed by a public consultation process which received over 150 submissions from employers, permit holders, trade unions and representative bodies, the views of which were carefully considered in shaping the review outcome.
Sufficient remuneration thresholds operate as a key protection, ensuring that the recruitment of non-EEA nationals does not place downward pressure on wages or conditions, or undermine employment opportunities or career progression for those just entering, or already in the domestic workforce. Indexation linking employment permit salary thresholds to changes in average weekly earnings, will be integral to ensuring that these thresholds remain effective into the future.
The broad objective of these policy instruments ensures that the employment permits system continues to support enterprise needs while protecting employment standards and preserving the integrity of the wider labour market.
283. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the reason for the tripling in waiting times for A1 company formation relative to its own target of five working days. [32025/26]
View answer284. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the processes that exist within the CRO to expedite urgent and special case A1 applications. [32026/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 283 and 284 together.
An application to the Companies Registration Office (CRO) to incorporate as a company can be made under one of two schemes, namely the Ordinary A1 Online Scheme or the faster Fé Phrainn Scheme.
The Fé Phrainn Scheme targets a turnaround of 5 working days while the Ordinary A1 Online Scheme has a target of 10 working days to provide a Certificate of Incorporation, once relevant documents have been completed and uploaded correctly. Processing times are published on the CRO website on a regular basis.
I understand that there has been a 30% increase in applications for new incorporations to date in 2026, with implications for processing times. However, I have been informed by the Registrar that the situation is being kept under review with additional staff being reassigned from other duties in the CRO to assist with processing applications.
Applications for company incorporations are processed by the CRO in date order to ensure fairness and transparency for all applicants. However, if an application is particularly urgent, a request to expedite an incorporation can be made to the Registrar setting out the reasons for such urgency.
285. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to urgently examine and put in place measures to assist service-based startups (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32092/26]
View answerThis Government recognises the importance of developing the services industry in our rural towns and communities. Not only do they encourage economic activity, but they also contribute to placemaking and tourism activity.
I would encourage any entrepreneur looking to start up a business such as this to first visit the National Enterprise Hub (NEH). The NEH is an all-of-Government service for businesses that brings together multiple agencies and Government departments under one roof (www.neh.gov.ie). The purpose of the NEH is to simplify access to grants and support services for businesses. It is staffed with trained expert advisors within Enterprise Ireland who can guide small business owners to find the support they need.
Since launching last year, the NEH has handled over 12,000 enquiries and Monthly volumes have grown steadily.
I would also suggest contacting their Local Enterprise Office (LEO). LEO business advisors are well versed in the broad range of supports available across a variety of government bodies and provide a range of business mentoring and training courses aimed at providing business owners and new entrepreneurs with advice and skills to start up and grow their own businesses. The Start Your Own Business programme, in particular, can assist new entrepreneurs in assessing their business idea, its viability and to decide if they should proceed.
LEO Business advisors can also assist business owners in preparing and submitting applications to Micro-Finance Ireland (MFI), who offer small business loans at a reduced rate, that can assist with start-up costs. Applications received through the LEOs are offered at a 1% lower rate. MFI provides loans of up to €50,000 to micro-enterprises employing fewer than 10 people. The scheme is primarily intended for businesses that have been unable to secure funding from commercial lenders.
The Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme (GSLS) is a €500 million long-term, low-cost loan scheme jointly developed by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The scheme is supported by the European Investment Bank Group (EIBG) through a counter-guarantee to the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), which delivers the scheme through participating finance providers.
The GSLS offers loans of between €25,000 and €3 million, with terms of up to 10 years, to SMEs, farmers, fishers and small mid-cap and loans of up to €500,000 available unsecured. The scheme is due to remain in operation until 30 June 2026, or until its €500 million funding envelope is fully utilised, whichever occurs first, and has attracted very strong demand since its launch.
In recognition of the importance of maintaining access to affordable long term finance, and in response to the strong demand for the scheme, I , together with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, have brought proposals to Government to expand the GSLS and extend its closing date to 30 June 2029, subject to Government approval.
Subject to such approval, an expanded and extended GSLS would help ensure continued access to vital, low cost finance for SMEs, support sustained investment in green and growth oriented activities, and further underpin Ireland’s broader objectives in relation to economic resilience and sustainability
286. Deputy George Lawlor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of vacant staff, by job title, currently at the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission; the estimated full year costs of filling each of the vacancies; the expected timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32116/26]
View answerThe Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) currently has 16 staff vacancies across a range of functional and management roles. These include positions in enforcement, advocacy, consumer protection, legal, policy, communications and corporate services.
The estimated full-year cost of filling these vacancies, inclusive of employer PRSI, is approximately €1.2 million. Subject to the completion of recruitment processes, the CCPC expects that these posts will be filled on a phased basis between Quarter 2 and Quarter 4 of 2026. Roles will be prioritised to remain within the budgetary envelope and in line with operational and strategic requirements.
While the CCPC is independent in the exercise of its statutory functions, my Department maintains regular engagement with the CCPC on budgetary matters, including staffing levels, in line with established governance arrangements.
|
Role Title |
Estimated full year cost (including PRSI) |
Forecasted Start Month |
|
Deputy Director of Cartels |
€100,488 |
Q4 - 2026 |
|
Financial Education Manager |
€66,121 |
Q4 - 2026 |
|
Deputy Director - Antitrust |
€100,488 |
Q4 - 2026 |
|
Investigator |
€42,741 |
Q2 - 2026 |
|
Analyst |
€42,741 |
Q2 - 2026 |
|
Policy Analyst |
€42,741 |
Q2 - 2026 |
|
Director of Cartels |
€119,128 |
Q4 - 2026 |
|
Head of Consumer Contacts & Analysis |
€91,548 |
Q3 - 2026 |
|
Financial Education Executive |
€42,741 |
Q3 - 2026 |
|
Media Communications Manager |
€66,121 |
Q2 - 2026 |
|
Product Safety Officer |
€42,741 |
Q3 - 2026 |
|
Legal Advisor |
€66,121 |
Q3 - 2026 |
|
HR Director |
€119,128 |
Q4 - 2026 |
|
Consumer Contact Manager |
€66,121 |
Q3 -2026 |
|
Analyst / Investigator |
€42,741 |
Q2 - 2026 |
|
Senior Director of Advocacy and Mergers |
€145,815 |
Q4 - 2026 |
287. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide details of the largest inward investment projects supported by IDA Ireland since 2015, ranked by capital investment value; the name of the company; the estimated capital investment; the projected and actual employment associated with each project; the level of grant support approved and drawn down in each case, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32199/26]
View answerForeign Direct Investment continues to be one of the key components of the Irish economy, and as Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, I am determined that Ireland remains a leading location for FDI.
While Ireland’s long-standing track record as a resilient, stable and innovative location in which to do business provides a strong foundation for attracting new investment, with increasing competition for investment, decisions are influenced by the value proposition of different jurisdictions and, critically, by IDA’s targeted support.
IDA’s 2025-29 strategy, Adapt Intelligently, aims to safeguard and grow Ireland’s existing FDI alongside a continued focus on winning new investment. The strategy seeks to build on IDA’s successes to date, supporting continued long-term investment through the transformation of the existing client base and leveraging new opportunities and sectors.
Central to the strategy is an emphasis on partnering with the existing 1,800 clients, employing over 312,000 people across the country, to identify opportunities to safeguard and strengthen long-term investment in Ireland. IDA Ireland doesn’t just focus on attracting new investments; it also provides ongoing support to existing clients to increase the competitiveness of their Irish operations. Capital grants are critical to supporting clients to increase competitiveness through investment in RDI, digitalisation, talent development and sustainability, and to the attraction of new investors to Ireland in an increasingly competitive environment. Action on one or more of these areas can be transformational, providing the foundation on which IDA Ireland clients can protect their already sizeable economic impact in Ireland and position their Irish sites to capture future growth opportunities.
This evolution in IDA Ireland’s approach, with a greater emphasis on transformation, has been reflected in the agency’s strategic targets and recent performance. Transformation focused investments by the existing FDI base – in RD&I, talent development, and sustainability – have increased significantly, and now account for approximately half of IDA Ireland’s annual investment approvals from approximately one-fifth in 2019. This has been accompanied by an 92% increase in annual RD&I spend commitments by clients, from €1.3bn in 2019 to €2.5bn in 2025. Over the same period, total employment in the portfolio has continued to grow, reaching a record 312,000 people in 2025.
IDA Ireland’s transformation supports have also been accompanied by targeted, strategic and temporary supports developed in partnership with my Department to protect jobs and economic activity in Ireland by supporting impacted clients to navigate challenging periods, including COVID-19 and the energy price shock following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Table 1. below outlines the largest investments for which IDA Ireland provided grant support since 2015. Grant supports outlined below totalled €253.5m and is associated with a total client commitment of expenditure of over €1.5bn mainly in high value RD&I in Ireland. This expenditure has helped to underpin these companies’ operations in Ireland. In total these companies:
• employ 12,551 in Ireland, 2025, up from 9,426 in 2019 (+33%)
• invested €24.4bn in capital expenditure since 2019 (to 2024)
• invested €9bn on RD&I since 2019 (to 2024)
• spent €2.6bn in the Irish economy in 2024 (payroll, Irish goods and services) up 54% since 2019.
Table 1. Largest investments grant aided by IDA Ireland (2015- 2025).
|
Client name |
Support Type |
Grant Approved € |
Amount drawn down to date € |
Year of granting |
|
Analog Devices International Unlimited Company |
IPCEI on Microelectronics |
85,000,000 |
30,241,141 |
2024 |
|
Software Labs Campus Unlimited Company/IBM Ireland Limited/Red Hat Limited |
RD&I |
32,938,727 |
4,469,967 |
2025 |
|
Intel Ireland Limited |
Microelectronics Manufacturers Ukraine Enterprise Crisis Scheme |
30,000,000 |
21,241,702 |
2023 |
|
Microsoft Ireland Research Unlimited Company |
RD&I |
20,735,357 |
- |
2025 |
|
Stryker Ireland Limited / Stryker European Operations Limited / Howmedica International S. De R.L. |
RD&I |
20,000,000 |
19,984,095 |
2019 |
|
Xilinx Ireland Unlimited Co - Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (Amd) |
RD&I |
13,631,735 |
2,143,640 |
2023 |
|
Sirius Xm Ireland Limited |
RD&I |
13,034,534 |
- |
2025 |
|
Stryker Nv Operations Limited / Stryker European Operations Limited |
RD&I |
12,935,164 |
- |
2024 |
|
Stryker Ireland Limited / Stryker European Operations Limited |
RD&I |
12,726,769 |
1,782,568 |
2024 |
|
Analog Devices International Unlimited Company |
RD&I |
12,552,460 |
12,552,459 |
2023 |
Note: Table 1 contains information published on Transparency Aid Module (TAM) and up to date as of April 29th, 2026. The information is based on signed grant agreements.
288. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of full-time and part-time staff currently employed by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission; the breakdown of the number of staff who are centrally employed, those employed under short-term contracts or through agencies; the salary levels of all staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32230/26]
View answerStaffing in the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is as follows;
• 257 staff are centrally employed
• 1 individual is engaged on a short term contract
• 2 staff are employed through an agency.
Pay arrangements for CCPC staff, who are public servants, are in line with approved Civil Service salary scales applicable to each grade.
The Table below sets out the grades, salary bands and numbers of staff within each grade.
|
Salary Bands |
Administrative Officer |
Assistant Principal |
Assistant Principal Higher |
Assistant Secretary |
Case Officer |
Deputy Secretary |
Clerical Officer |
Executive Officer |
Higher Executive Officer |
Principal Officer |
Principal Officer Higher |
Agency |
Short-term Contracts |
Grand Total |
|
30,001 - 35,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 |
|
35,001 - 40,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
25 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
28 |
|
40,001 - 45,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
22 |
|
|
|
|
|
22 |
|
45,001 - 50,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
13 |
|
50,001 - 55,000 |
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
55,001 - 60,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
16 |
|
|
|
|
19 |
|
60,001 - 65,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
46 |
|
|
|
|
47 |
|
65,001 - 70,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
21 |
|
|
|
|
21 |
|
70,001 - 75,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
4 |
|
75,001 - 80,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
80,001 - 85,000 |
|
7 |
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
8 |
|
85,001 - 90,000 |
|
25 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
25 |
|
90,001 - 95,000 |
|
11 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
16 |
|
95,001 - 100,000 |
|
8 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13 |
|
100,001 - 105,000 |
|
3 |
7 |
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
14 |
|
105,001 - 110,000 |
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
3 |
|
110,001 - 115,000 |
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
|
|
|
7 |
|
115,001 - 120,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 |
1 |
|
|
4 |
|
120,001 - 125,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
125,001 - 130,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4 |
|
|
|
4 |
|
170,001 - 175,000 |
|
|
|
2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
3 |
|
Over 200,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
|
Grand Total |
1 |
54 |
23 |
2 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
64 |
88 |
15 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
260 |
289. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of protected disclosures that have gone missing or have been compromised that have been submitted to his Department or State bodies that are responsible to his Department.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32286/26]
View answerI am not aware of any protected disclosures submitted to my Department or its Offices that have gone missing or have been compromised.
My Department has established procedures in place for the receipt, handling and investigation of protected disclosures, in line with the requirements of the Protected Disclosures Act. These procedures are designed to ensure that all disclosures are managed securely, confidentially and in accordance with best practice.
In addition, my Department publishes an annual report on protected disclosures, which provides transparency in relation to the number and nature of disclosures received. This report is available on the Department’s website.
In respect of the agencies that come within my Department's remit, they are statutorily independent in their functions. Management of potential protected disclosures is an operational matter for the agencies themselves and the requested records are not held in my Department. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the agencies for direct reply.
290. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of staff that are currently inactively employed by his Department or any organisation with responsibility to his Department. [32306/26]
View answerMy Department currently has 1,164 civil servants. As of the 30th April 2026 there are 119 civil servants on an approved form of leave which includes Maternity Leave, Sick Leave, Career Break and other Special Leave paid and unpaid.
In respect of the Agencies that come within my Department’s remit, they are statutorily independent in their functions and any staffing issues are an operational matter for those Agencies and not directly managed by my Department. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the agencies for direct reply.
