Written Answers Nos. 240-265
240. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide details of all grant schemes currently available through his Department for which individuals or community groups are eligible to apply; the purpose of each grant scheme; the eligibility criteria; the application process; the opening and closing dates for application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53422/26]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that there are no grant schemes administered by my Department for which individuals or community groups are eligible to apply.
241. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation for an update on phase 2 of the River Wad flood alleviation scheme [53576/26]
View answerA study of the River Wad catchment was initiated following heavy flooding in 2008 and 2009 on the River Wad. This study was carried out of the entire River Wad catchment, which resulted ultimately in a decision to progress a flood relief scheme for the River Wad in three parts led by Dublin City Council. The first part, Phase 1A was completed in 2015 and Phase 1B, the second part, was substantially completed in March 2026 in partnership with the OPW and with funding provided by the OPW. Phase 1B was officially opened by Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Mr. Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran T.D., on 2 July 2026.
The final part of the scheme upstream of Clanmoyle Road, currently referred to as Phase 2, remains to be progressed as part of the OPW’s Tranche 2 flood relief scheme programme of works. Under the national programme, work has yet to commence on the design of some 50 Tranche 2 flood relief schemes.
The OPW is currently piloting a new delivery model for flood relief schemes through four Tranche 2 schemes in counties Kilkenny and Donegal, which is referred to as the Tranche 2 Pilot. There are two Tranche 2 pilot schemes in County Kilkenny (Freshford and Piltown) and two schemes in County Donegal (Donegal Town and Letterkenny). The Tranche 2 Pilot will transfer the management of data gathering, as a first step in designing a scheme, from consultant engineers for a single scheme to the local authorities for all schemes in the Pilot and, where feasible, within their areas of responsibility. The Pilot means that data gathering may be scaled up from individual communities to all schemes in a county. The Pilot will better inform the prioritisation of future schemes nationally and the scope of services required from consultants to design and construct flood relief schemes.
Nationally, 57 schemes have been completed to date which are providing protection to 13,640 properties and an economic benefit to the State in damages and losses avoided estimated to be in the region of €2 billion. Consequently, work to protect 80% of all at-risk properties nationally is completed or underway.
Completion of this work is part of the Government’s strategy under Project Ireland 2040 to make Ireland a better country for all and to build a more resilient and sustainable future. From a financial perspective, the scheme has been funded through the Government’s 2030 National Development Plan with €1.3 billion in flood relief available under the 2030 National Development Plan to protect communities across Ireland from the impacts of climate change through future-proofed, adaptable flood relief schemes.
242. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will review the impact of the public sector single pension scheme on post-2013 fast accrual pension members, including prison officers; to give consideration to restoring a supplementary pension arrangement to bridge the gap between retirement age and State pension age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53598/26]
View answer243. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if a civil servant who is a member of the Civil Service spouses' and children's contributory pension scheme may nominate or otherwise register a cohabiting partner for survivor pension purposes; the process to record a qualified cohabitant in advance of a survivor pension claim arising; whether, following the judgment in a case (details supplied) a qualified cohabitant may be entitled to a survivor's pension under the scheme; if he intends to review the scheme rules and administrative procedures in light of that judgment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53631/26]
View answer244. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his views on the need to approve a new board for Kilmainham Gaol, or to re-establish the outgoing board so that work with the Gaol can continue effectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53673/26]
View answerKilmainham Gaol is a National Monuments managed and conserved by the Office of Public Works (OPW). The OPW acknowledges the contribution made by the members of the Kilmainham Gaol Restoration Society and the Board of Visitors in helping to preserve and promote this nationally important site over the years.
The Board of Visitors was established on a non-statutory basis. Its role is advisory in nature. It has no executive or governance function in relation to the management or operation of Kilmainham Gaol, which remains the responsibility of the Office of Public Works.
The OPW will seek to ensure that the knowledge and commitment of those associated with the restoration of Kilmainham Gaol will continue to be recognised.
I wish to emphasise that the operation, conservation and presentation of Kilmainham Gaol continues in the normal way, under the management of the Office of Public Works. The Gaol remains fully operational and open to visitors as one of Ireland's premier national heritage properties.
245. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps that are being taken to address/control overpricing in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53593/26]
View answerIn Ireland, traders are generally free to set and adjust prices for goods and services provided they do so independently and in compliance with competition and consumer protection legislation. Consumer protection law requires clear, upfront disclosure of total prices, including any charges, so that consumers can make informed decisions. Under the Consumer Protection Act 2007, traders must provide clear and accurate price information. It is an offence for a trader to give a false or misleading indication of a price or to charge a higher price than that displayed.
Through its enforcement actions and public guidance, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) ensures that businesses compete fairly, consumers are treated honestly, and the market remains open and dynamic. The CCPC continues to promote and monitor compliance across all sectors, and where appropriate, investigates suspected breaches and takes enforcement action when necessary.
While several countries have considered introducing price controls, in most cases these plans have been dropped because of the potential for unintended negative consequences. The imposition of price caps could negatively impact competition and unintentionally increase prices which would present a risk to both the Irish economy and consumers.
The Programme for Government commits to strengthening consumer-protection legislation, enhancing the powers of the CCPC and promoting price transparency through enhancing the powers of the CCPC and promoting price transparency for consumers.
My Department maintains ongoing engagement with the CCPC, which forms part of broader efforts to ensure fair competition and robust consumer protection. The CCPC, as the independent statutory body, enforces these rules and can take action where it finds non-compliance.
246. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether he considered any measures to incentivise licensed premises and manufacturers pricing non-alcoholic drinks at a more competitive price; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52632/26]
View answerIn general, businesses in Ireland are free to set their own prices, so long as they do so independently and in compliance with consumer protection law. There are no requirements in law limiting the prices a business can charge, or the amount by which it can increase, or indeed decrease, its prices, nor any obligation on businesses to determine their prices based on a specific markup of their costs.
While businesses in Ireland are free to set their own prices independently, they must comply with consumer protection law, which requires clear, upfront disclosure of total prices, including any taxes and charges, so that consumers can make informed decisions.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the independent statutory body responsible for enforcing consumer protection law. Its primary functions include monitoring compliance, conducting inspections and investigations, and exercising a range of enforcement powers up to and including prosecution. In addition, the CCPC publishes guidance to assist businesses in understanding their pricing and price display obligations.
247. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the estimated cost in 2027 if the budget for the Strategic Air Access Fund was doubled. [52654/26]
View answerMy Department secured an additional €7.5 million in core funding as part of Tourism Ireland's Budget Allocation for 2026 to support market diversification initiatives, including strategic air access measures aimed at maximising tourism growth to the island of Ireland. This allocation includes €1.25 million specifically for the Strategic Air Access Fund.
The purpose of the fund is to maximise the opportunities arising from new direct air routes to Ireland from both established and emerging markets with inbound tourism potential. Through cooperative marketing initiatives with airline partners, the fund will support demand generation for these routes, helping to ensure strong returns on investment, increased visitor numbers and wider economic benefits across the island of Ireland.
Based on the funding allocated to the Strategic Air Access Fund in Budget 2026, the estimated cost in 2027 would be €2.5 million if the budget for the fund were doubled.
248. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the operating costs of each IDA office worldwide, by location in 2025 and for the first six months of 2026, in tabular form. [52718/26]
View answerForeign Direct Investment is a key element of Ireland's economic strategy, with investments by IDA Ireland client companies consistently generating highly skilled jobs nationwide. A total of 190 investments were secured by IDA during the first half of 2026, up 6% on the same period in 2025 which was a record year for investments.
Ireland continues to remain attractive to new investors with 54 of these 190 investments coming from companies new to Ireland. IDA’s 2025-29 strategy also emphasises partnering with companies to strengthen long term investment, and the efficacy of this approach is reflected in the 39 expansions from existing client companies, 57 RD&I investments, 31 talent development projects, and 9 green capital investments.
Employment and economic impact of IDA clients on Irish economy and society remains at record levels. IDA client employment increased by 1.5% to 312,400 in 2025, which is line with national employment growth and holds share of total national employment at 11%.
This strong FDI performance in the first half of 2026 reflects Ireland’s continued competitiveness on the world stage. IDA operates a network of offices across the globe engaging with a diverse range of sectors including technology, life sciences, financial services, and advanced manufacturing and continuously reviews its strategic approach to winning investment for Ireland.
The table below outlines the operating costs associated with IDA offices worldwide, by location, in 2025 and estimated for the first six months of 2026.
|
IRELAND |
Costs 2025 Jan – Dec |
Estimated Costs 2026 Jan – June |
|
Three Park Place, IDA Ireland HQ (rent, rates, Service Charge, utilities) |
€5,187,000 |
€2,593,500 |
|
Athlone Office (IDA Ireland owned) |
€89,800 |
€44,900 |
|
Letterkenny (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€7,000 |
€3,500 |
|
Sligo (rent, rates, Service charge, utilities) |
€130,700 |
€65,350 |
|
Limerick (rent inclusive of utilities, rates |
€39,200 |
€19,600 |
|
Cavan (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€14,200 |
€7,100 |
|
NORTH AMERICA |
|
|
|
Austin (rent, rates) |
€51,000 |
€25,500 |
|
Chicago (rent, utilities) |
€120,000 |
€60,000 |
|
Palo Alto (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€358,000 |
€179,000 |
|
Atlanta (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€72,000 |
€36,000 |
|
New York (rent, utilities) |
€623,000 |
€311,500 |
|
Irvine (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€64,000 |
€32,000 |
|
Boston (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€81,000 |
€40,500 |
|
Toronto (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€33,000 |
€16,500 |
|
EUROPE |
|
|
|
Paris (rent, rates, utilities) |
€124,000 |
€62,000 |
|
Frankfurt (rent, utilities) |
€131,000 |
€65,500 |
|
London rent (Service Charge inclusive of utilities, rates) |
€411,000 |
€205,500 |
|
ASIA PACIFIC |
|
|
|
Sydney (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€30,000 |
€15,000 |
|
Seoul (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€31,000 |
€15,500 |
|
Tokyo (Service charge (DFA owned building), utilities) |
€6,000 |
€3,000 |
|
Shanghai (rent, Service Charge, utilities) |
€228,000 |
€114,000 |
|
Shenzhen (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€40,597 |
€13,532 |
|
Beijing (rent, Service Charge, utilities) |
€77,000 |
€38,500 |
|
Singapore (rent inclusive of utilities) |
€30,000 |
€15,000 |
|
Mumbai (rent, Service Charge, utilities) |
€149,000 |
€74,500 |
249. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the operating costs of each Enterprise Ireland office worldwide, by location in 2025 and for the first six months of 2026, in tabular form. [52719/26]
View answerEnterprise Ireland is the Irish government’s enterprise development agency that invests in and supports the development of Irish-owned companies on their journey to achieving greater scale and to becoming global leaders in their field. Enterprise Ireland’s teams in Ireland and across their network of 40 international offices help Irish companies to develop high-growth strategies and to enter new markets with innovative and sustainable solutions.
The operating costs of each Enterprise Ireland office worldwide, by location, for 2025 and for the first six months of 2026 are outlined in the table below.
Operating Costs of EI Offices Worldwide
|
No. |
Office |
Full year 2025 costs € |
First six months 2026 (YTD) costs € |
|
1 |
Dubai |
184,156.00 |
166,113.00 |
|
2 |
Los Angeles |
5,217.00 |
2,816.00 |
|
3 |
Prague |
45,849.00 |
31,878.00 |
|
4 |
Lyon |
58,601.00 |
31,380.00 |
|
5 |
Melbourne |
34,877.00 |
20,273.00 |
|
6 |
Vietnam |
36,240.00 |
13,869.00 |
|
7 |
Seattle |
45,019.00 |
22,060.00 |
|
8 |
Amsterdam |
155,274.00 |
112,900.00 |
|
9 |
Beijing |
121,868.00 |
70,926.00 |
|
10 |
Toronto |
91,919.00 |
130,129.00 |
|
11 |
Glasgow |
58,557.00 |
31,173.00 |
|
12 |
Atlanta |
43,343.00 |
19,286.00 |
|
13 |
Sau Paulo |
55,371.00 |
35,000.00 |
|
14 |
Dusseldorf |
215,712.00 |
112,090.00 |
|
15 |
London Shaftsbury |
656,477.00 |
349,365.00 |
|
16 |
Hong Kong |
109,221.00 |
60,164.00 |
|
17 |
Cape Town |
85,447.00 |
53,298.00 |
|
18 |
Munich |
36,291.00 |
19,692.00 |
|
19 |
Boston |
117,141.00 |
68,948.00 |
|
20 |
Copenhagen |
52,548.00 |
28,259.00 |
|
21 |
Madrid |
63,617.00 |
41,859.00 |
|
22 |
Manchester |
63,639.00 |
37,834.00 |
|
23 |
Zurich |
22,534.00 |
25,990.00 |
|
24 |
Chicago |
109,257.00 |
46,457.00 |
|
25 |
Seoul |
69,071.00 |
46,685.00 |
|
26 |
Paris |
324,673.00 |
162,504.00 |
|
27 |
Shanghai |
180,157.00 |
103,484.00 |
|
28 |
Mumbai |
207,170.00 |
4,572.00 |
|
29 |
Warsaw |
94,385.00 |
54,570.00 |
|
30 |
Singapore |
152,865.00 |
51,093.00 |
|
31 |
Austin |
58,246.00 |
39,590.00 |
|
32 |
San Francisco |
336,496.00 |
188,661.00 |
|
33 |
Sydney |
92,461.00 |
59,841.00 |
|
34 |
Milan |
76,011.00 |
48,022.00 |
|
35 |
Brussels |
120,381.00 |
39,110.00 |
|
36 |
Stockholm |
139,825.00 |
80,827.00 |
|
37 |
New York |
639,410.00 |
402,368.00 |
|
38 |
Tokyo |
99,341.00 |
53,773.00 |
|
39 |
Riyadh |
51,017.00 |
14,743.00 |
|
40 |
Kuala Lumpur |
12,393.00 |
5,900.00 |
|
|
Totals |
5,122,077.00 |
2,887,502.00 |
250. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if there is a specific policy within his Department that seeks to preclude those elected to local authorities from any boards that he may appoint; the rationale behind any such policy; the way in which it aligns with encouraging participation in local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52853/26]
View answerThe Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment does not have a specific policy that seeks to preclude persons elected to local authorities from being appointed to the boards of bodies under its aegis.
Appointments to State boards are made in accordance with the relevant governance and appointments frameworks and having regard to the requirements of the particular board concerned. Membership criteria, including any eligibility or disqualification requirements, may be specified in the establishing legislation of individual bodies where applicable. This is to ensure good governance, independence and avoid any conflicts of interest arising.
The Department supports participation in local government and does not operate a general policy preventing elected local authority members from serving on State boards. Any restrictions on membership would arise, where relevant, from the specific legislative provisions governing a particular body rather than from a Departmental policy.
251. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to commit to preparing legislation to not automatically exclude members of local authorities from consideration for appointment to State boards; and to set out the reasons such persons would be excluded. [52871/26]
View answerThere are no plans at present to introduce overarching legislation to remove restrictions on the eligibility of members of local authorities for appointment to State boards.
The criteria for appointment to the boards of State bodies is determined by the governing legislation establishing that body. In certain cases, that legislation provides that a board member shall cease to be a member of the board if he or she is nominated as a member of Seanad Éireann, is elected as a member of either House of the Oireachtas or as a representative in the European Parliament, elected to the European Parliament, or becomes a member of a local authority.
Such provisions are included where considered appropriate by the Oireachtas, having regard to the particular functions and responsibilities of the body. These restrictions help avoid actual or perceived conflicts of interest, maintain the independence of the body, ensure appropriate separation between political and executive or regulatory functions, and support public confidence in the objectivity of board decision-making.
252. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if an assessment has been undertaken of the impact of import delays and regulatory processing times at ports and airports on small and medium sized enterprises importing perishable products; the supports available to affected businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52978/26]
View answerThe efficient movement of goods through Ireland's ports and airports is an important element of our trading environment, particularly for SMEs importing perishable products, where even short delays can have a disproportionate impact on business viability. While the operation of customs and regulatory controls at these points of entry is primarily a matter for the relevant competent authorities, including Revenue, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and other agencies responsible for import controls, my Department maintains a strong interest in ensuring that regulatory processes across Government support, rather than hinder, business competitiveness. These controls are required to ensure compliance with EU and national requirements relating to customs, food safety, animal and plant health, and consumer protection.
Government departments and agencies engage on an ongoing basis with businesses and representative bodies regarding issues affecting trade flows, supply chains and customs processes. A range of measures are in place to minimise delays, and importers are encouraged to ensure that all required documentation is submitted accurately and within the prescribed timelines, as incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to delays. My Department also provides channels through which businesses can raise such concerns directly with policymakers, including through the Enterprise and Retail Forums and the Cost of Business Advisory Forum, established to examine key cost drivers and regulatory frameworks, including tax administration and regulatory compliance burdens, affecting Irish businesses. The Forum's report with recommendations will be presented to Government at the end of July.
In terms of direct supports, businesses can avail of customs training and advisory supports provided through Enterprise Ireland, the Local Enterprise Offices and other agencies; guidance from Revenue on customs procedures; and sector-specific supports available through relevant State bodies. Access to these supports has been simplified through the National Enterprise Hub, which has handled over 7,500 enquiries and now provides a single point of contact for over 250 supports across 29 departments and agencies, reducing the burden on SMEs of navigating this landscape, including those dealing in time-sensitive perishable goods.
More broadly, my Department remains committed to reducing the administrative and regulatory burden on SMEs across all areas of their operations. This is reflected in the Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity, published in September 2025, which contains 85 actions, including regulating for growth and controlling costs, and better regulation, licensing and permitting, an area where Ireland currently lags the average of the five best-performing OECD countries. This domestic work is complemented by the Red Tape Challenge across Government and by the EU's own simplification agenda, under which the European Commission has published 12 Omnibus packages to date, with further proposals expected in 2026. My Department will continue to monitor emerging issues affecting trade flows and competitiveness, including those impacting SMEs in the perishable goods sector, and will work with relevant stakeholders to ensure appropriate action is taken.
253. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if consideration is being given to establishing a cross-departmental trade facilitation mechanism or trader support service to assist businesses encountering operational difficulties involving multiple State agencies during the importation of goods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53051/26]
View answerThe importation of goods from outside the EU falls within the EU Customs Union, which is an area of exclusive EU competence under Article 3 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). This means that the EU, rather than individual Member States, sets the core customs rules, tariffs and procedures governing imports. Member States are responsible for administering and enforcing those rules through their national authorities.
The Government recognises the importance of helping businesses navigate the regulatory and operational requirements associated with importing goods. A number of State bodies, including Revenue, DAFM, the HSE and the FSAI, have responsibilities in this area.
Where issues arise with traders engaging with multiple authorities, existing arrangements provide for inter-agency cooperation, while businesses can access support through the relevant agencies, Enterprise Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices.
My Department has responsibility for reducing unnecessary administrative burdens on business and works with stakeholders and other Departments to identify regulatory bottlenecks and opportunities for simplification. This work is informed by Ireland's Better Regulation framework and engagement at EU and OECD level, and through cooperation with other Government Departments and agencies.
While there are currently no plans to establish a dedicated cross-departmental trade facilitation mechanism or trader support service, the effectiveness of existing supports remains under review. The Government is committed to streamlining regulatory processes, improving coordination across agencies and ensuring that barriers to trade are addressed where possible, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
I will continue to engage with relevant Departments, agencies and business representative organisations to ensure that the needs of traders are appropriately considered.
254. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the position regarding the reporting requirements for people that die or are seriously injured in road traffic incidents when their trip was for work purposes; if it is required that employers report these instances to the Health and Safety Authority under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Reporting of Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences) Regulations 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53193/26]
View answer255. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the position regarding the reporting requirements for people that die or are seriously injured in road traffic incidents when their trip was for work purposes; if it is required that employers report these instances to the Health and Safety Authority under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Reporting of Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences) Regulations 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53194/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 254 and 255 together.
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2016, all employers and self-employed persons are legally obliged to report all fatal and non-fatal accidents while at work.
Fatal accidents must be reported immediately to the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) or An Garda Síochána. Subsequently, the formal report should be submitted to the HSA within five working days of the death. Non-fatal accidents or dangerous occurrences should be reported to the HSA within ten working days of the event. Injuries must be reported to the HSA if an employee is unable to carry out their normal work for more than three consecutive days, excluding the day of the accident.
Accidents that take place while a person is driving for work are reportable. This includes any person who drives on a road as part of their work either in a vehicle provided by their employer or driving their own vehicle and in receipt of an allowance or payment from their employer for distances driven.
Commuting to work is not generally classified as driving for work, except where the person’s journey starts from their home and they are travelling to a work location that is not their normal place of work.
In the event of a serious injury or death, employers should report the incident to the HSA. However, it is the RSA, who have statutory remit to report on fatal, serious and minor injury collisions on public roads, who receive collision data from An Garda Síochána and who produce official statistics to help develop evidence-based road safety interventions.
Employers should have systems in place to ensure that driving for work activities are road safety compliant. Driving for work involves a risk not only for drivers, but also for fellow workers and members of the public, such as pedestrians and other road users. While employers cannot directly control roadway conditions, they can promote and influence safe driving behaviour and actions by their employees.
Further information, including the HSA’s Online Accident Reporting System and Dangerous Occurrences Form, can be accessed at: www.hsa.ie
256. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when his Department's investigation into exports by a company (details supplied) to Russia will be published; the reason no firm date has been given despite repeated commitments that the investigation was "nearing finalisation" or would conclude "within a number of weeks"; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53248/26]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, my Department is currently carrying out a detailed examination into matters raised in media reports relating to the export of alumina to Russia.
The Deputy will appreciate that the Department is independently and thoroughly taking time to collate and analyse information relevant to the review, including information received from Ukraine and from a number of Member States involved in the alumina supply chain. The review is well advanced but I cannot provide an exact time frame for conclusion of the examination.
257. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to clarify the discrepancy between the originally reported figure of 83% of exports by a company (details supplied) going to Russia and the revised figure of approximately 45%, as identified during his Department's investigation; the date on which this discrepancy was discovered; if his Department is satisfied that the corrected figure is accurate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53249/26]
View answerThe CSO publishes International Trade in Goods statistics for Extra-EU Trade Data, which would include the level of alumina exported to Russia since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The relevant data underlying trade in goods statistics published by the CSO are provided by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners from information collected on Customs declarations. The CSO is responsible for processing and disseminating this data.
I am aware that an issue arose at the start of June relating to the returns made by a company but that these returns were subsequently corrected in the usual manner. As both the CSO and Revenue are bodies under the aegis of the Department of Finance, I am not in a position to comment on the accuracy of any of the data collected and processed by them.
To assist the Deputy, I requested some general information from the CSO in relation to the compilation and correction of trade figures and I have been informed that “final monthly trade figures are published nationally six months after the publication of each month’s preliminary figures. However, further revisions are possible in exceptional cases and asymmetries are the subject of ongoing examination.
A large component of the monthly revisions received from Revenue come from the incorporation of late data received from traders, however, in some cases, traders may correct errors in previously reported value and volume data. Revisions to the trade data are managed and communicated in line with CSO’s Revision Policy.
Revised data for the year 2025 and Quarter 1 2026 have recently been received by the CSO from Revenue for Goods under CN 28182000 (Aluminium oxide excl. artificial corundum). Updated trade in goods statistics for these periods will be published by the CSO on July 15th.
For confidentiality purposes, trade data published by the CSO is published in aggregate form at the product level. Trade data at the enterprise level is not published by the CSO.
258. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the evidence, including any evaluation, cost-benefit analysis, economic assessment or statistical analysis, underpinning the policy of providing a 1% interest rate discount on loans (details supplied); whether the Department has assessed whether the discount improves loan performance, repayment rates, business survival or employment outcomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53291/26]
View answerMy Department receives regular information from Microfinance Ireland on the overall performance of its loan schemes, including lending activity, loan performance and business and employment outcomes supported by the scheme. This information is used to monitor the operation and effectiveness of the schemes.
However, the information available does not identify the specific contribution of the 1% interest rate discount to those outcomes. Accordingly, the Department does not disaggregate analysis between loan applications through LEO referrals and direct applications.
The primary purpose of the 1% interest rate discount is to incentivise applicants to apply through the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) network, thereby providing access to application support services and increasing awareness of the wider range of business supports available through the LEOs. These supports include business planning assistance, mentoring and training programmes, which can help applicants to strengthen their business proposition and support the establishment, sustainability and growth of their businesses. Engagement between MFI and the LEO network helps to provide a seamless and continuous support experience for clients throughout the application process and beyond.
Officials from my Department meet regularly with Microfinance Ireland, including through quarterly liaison meetings at which the performance of its loan schemes is reviewed and discussed. In addition, Microfinance Ireland engages with the Department through established governance and reporting arrangements.
259. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the estimated total output of CO2 by all companies operating in Ireland in each of the years 2024, 2025, and to date in 2026 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53390/26]
View answerThe Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are responsible for monitoring and reporting on emissions in Ireland.
According to the recently published provisional estimates of Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions between 1990 and 2025, industrial emissions dropped to 6.0 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (Mt CO2eq.), which is a 15.9% decrease on 2018 levels. Manufacturing combustion was the main source of industry emissions in 2025 at 4.2 Mt CO2eq. Industrial process emissions, arising mostly in the cement sector, made up the balance at 1.83 Mt CO2eq. Hard to abate sectors such as the cement sector achieved a reduction of 24.1% since 2018, from 2.9 Mt CO2eq. in 2018, to 2.2 Mt CO2eq. in 2025.
In 2024, total industrial emissions were 6.2 Mt CO2eq., which was a 13.2% decrease on 2018 levels.
The commercial built environment in Ireland (including public sector buildings) consists of approximately 123,700 buildings. In 2018 emissions from the commercial built environment was 2 Mt CO2eq. and accounted for 3.4% of the total national greenhouse gas emissions. The latest EPA report indicates that emissions from the commercial and public built environment decreased by 4% and 3%, respectively, in 2025. Cumulatively emissions from the commercial built environment decreased by 16.6% since the baseline year of 2018.
The EPA reports on emissions data from the year before each summer and as such no data is available for 2026. I am working towards reducing industrial on-site emissions by 35% by 2030, compared to 2018 levels, in line with Ireland’s Sectoral Emissions Ceilings.
As Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment I am committed to working with industry and enterprise to rapidly enable their decarbonisation plans. Businesses across Ireland are increasingly investing in measures to be both more environmentally sustainable and economically competitive.
In June 2024, I ringfenced €300m for Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland to incentivise industrial decarbonisation projects among their client bases. This funding is being used for investing in energy efficiency, renewable heat, electrification and innovative low-carbon technologies, reducing energy costs, which helps manufacturing businesses to become more competitive and, crucially, have greater energy security. To date, 43 projects have been approved to a value of more than €163m in grant aid through this Environmental Aid Fund. In addition, the agencies are also providing €141m in grant aid through other funding mechanisms, in support of industrial decarbonisation measures. These grants have leveraged more than €1bn of private investment from the companies involved. Many of these investment commitments will be completed in the latter half of the decade. The investments listed above which will be responsible for the further removal of more than 346,377 tonnes of CO2eq from industry.
The decarbonisation of our commercial buildings requires reducing energy consumption and increasing the use of renewable energy, especially for space and water heating. In addition, the use of smart technologies to monitor, control and optimise a building’s energy performance is a key tools to drive better energy use and reduced emissions. Businesses of all sizes can access the SEAI’s Business Energy Upgrades Scheme, which supports high-quality energy audits and a range of building upgrades, including solar thermal and solar PV installations, automatic controls, heat pumps, air-handling units, ventilation, and fabric improvements such as wall insulation. In 2025, 186 grants were approved under the scheme, with funding of €3.36 million.
The Local Enterprise Office Energy Efficiency Grant can also support investment in technologies and equipment recommended in an approved energy audit, providing 75% of eligible costs from a minimum grant of €750 to a maximum of €10,000. This has proved an impactful support for smaller businesses.
260. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide details of all grant schemes currently available through his Department for which individuals or community groups are eligible to apply; the purpose of each grant scheme; the eligibility criteria; the application process; the opening and closing dates for application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53415/26]
View answerMy Department's grant schemes, as well as those administered by offices and agencies under its aegis, are primarily directed towards supporting enterprise and economic development, including the promotion of inward investment, innovation and job creation. Accordingly, the Department does not operate grant schemes for community organisations or individuals.
261. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the key measures taken to support the SME sector since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53460/26]
View answer264. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the key measures taken to boost Ireland's competitiveness since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53463/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 264 together.
Ireland currently holds a strong competitive position globally. This is reflected in our current position as the 7th most competitive country in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings. However, there are still significant challenges and it is important that we do not take our strengths for granted. In recognition of this the Government has taken an active approach to boosting competitiveness, including providing significant support to SMEs.
The Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity - a Programme for Government commitment - was published on the 10th of September 2025. The delivery of this Action Plan was expedited in response to challenging international economic developments. This Action Plan reflects a whole-of-government approach to the domestic drivers of competitiveness and focuses on areas that are firmly within our national control. Its development was informed by extensive consultation across Government Departments and with external stakeholders. In particular, officials from my department undertook a series of bilateral engagements with key Government partners, including in the areas of infrastructure, housing, research and innovation. Each of the 85 actions is assigned a specific owner and has a timeline for implementation. Just under half of the actions are due for delivery in 2026 – the remaining actions were delivered in 2025 or are scheduled for delivery across 2027 to 2030. The overarching objective of the Action Plan is to maintain and improve Ireland's position as a competitive and productive economy capable of withstanding shocks, building on our strengths and developing our indigenous enterprise base while continuing to attract investment and talent from abroad.
In addition, the Cost of Business Advisory Forum was established in June 2025. The Forum brings together key representative bodies across enterprise, industry, manufacturing, retail, hospitality and agri-food sectors, alongside senior officials across Government departments, regulators, and State agencies. The Forum has met regularly over the last eight months with each meeting devoted to a distinct thematic area of concern to businesses such as energy and security of supply, insurance costs, planning and infrastructure regulations, water services costs, legal costs, reporting and compliance regulations as well as banking, payments, and financial services.
Through the Forum, representatives across different sectors – including SMEs – reiterated the real world impacts of sustained and increasing cost pressures and regulatory demands on day to day operations, investment capacity, and competitiveness, particularly for smaller enterprises. At its most recent meeting (22 April), Forum members discussed the final report and its recommendations, and members stressed the importance of presenting a report that will articulate both immediate practical actions and longer-term policy considerations, which are measurable and impactful in reducing operational costs and the regulatory burden on SME’s.
I attended the last meeting of the Forum alongside Minister Dillon and Minister Smyth, and noted the significant work that has been completed. The final report, informed by extensive stakeholder input and cross government collaboration is expected to be presented to Government shortly and it will play a key role in shaping future approaches to supporting a competitive, resilient, and sustainable enterprise environment.
I am also pleased to inform that the Small Business Unit was established in my department last year, fulfilling another Programme for Government commitment. The Unit has been tasked with ensuring that the needs and issues of small businesses have a dedicated focus and are recognised and acknowledged across Government. There are a number of tools this Unit and my Department will use to enable its work.
First, through the rigorous implementation of the SME Test. The SME Test tasks policy makers to consider the impact that any new policy, legislation, or regulation, may have on SMEs, and to mitigate against those impacts where appropriate. Secondly, access to grants and support programmes have been simplified through the launch of the National Enterprise Hub (NEH). The NEH is hosted and operated by Enterprise Ireland and has over 250 different supports for businesses from 32 Departments and agencies. Third, the Small Business Unit has responsibility for the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs). We are ensuring the LEOs are properly resourced to help small businesses. A review of the full suite of LEO supports is currently underway while my Department and EI have completed a review of applications for all LEO grant schemes to reduce the number of questions and simplify requirements.
I assure you that the Government and my Department are fully committed to supporting SMEs and strengthening competitiveness, and to implementing the relevant Programme for Government commitments in an effective and timely manner.
262. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the key measures taken to support the retail sector since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53461/26]
View answerThe Government acknowledges the contribution of the retail sector to the economy of every city, town and village in Ireland. The sector provides highly important employment with over 220,000 people directly employed in retail.
The Programme for Government is clear on the intention to support small businesses and as the Minister of State with responsibility for retail, I am aware of the issues facing retailers.
The broad range of supports for the retail sector, including training programmes and funding to help retailers adapt to new challenges and opportunities in retail, can be found on the National Enterprise Hub. The NEH is an all-of-government service staffed by expertly trained advisers and is focused on helping businesses to access a range of Government supports. The hub brings together information and resources of over 250 Government supports from 32 different Departments and State agencies.
Two such supports are the Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) and the Grow Digital Voucher. Both the EEG and the Grow Digital Voucher are available to all eligible business with up to 50 employees, regardless of sector.
The EEG now offers grant assistance of up to a maximum of €10,000 with a 75% contribution rate from Government for a broad range of measures to support the investment in technologies and equipment identified through the Green for Business Scheme. The Grow Digital Voucher offers up to €5,000 to small businesses to invest in technology such as online booking systems, stock control, AI, cyber security, and payroll software. These grants are designed to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of small businesses.
In 2024, the Government introduced the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant and the power up grant scheme. In total these grant schemes have paid out over €410 million to businesses in 2024 and 2025 and were specifically aimed at SMEs in the retail, hospitality and beauty sectors.
The Cost of Business Advisory Forum was established in June 2025 as part of the current Programme for Government’s commitment to reduce business costs and alleviating regulatory burdens. Retail representative bodies have made regular submissions to the Forum and have highlighted the real-world impact of increased cost pressures and regulatory burden; and the effect these demands have on the operational capacity and competitiveness of retail SMEs.
The Forums consultative phase has now concluded, this independent report and its recommendations are being finalised and will be presented to Government in late July. These recommendations are considered to address issues that merit a changed approach, and those steps that can be taken to mitigate these issues to ensure businesses including retailers, navigating today’s economic landscape, remain a competitive, resilient, and supportive environment for enterprise.
In addition, the Retail Forum allows key issues of relevance to the retail sector to be discussed, with a view to identifying practical actions which could be taken by Government, or by industry itself, to support the sector with particular emphasis on achieving sustainable jobs growth in the sector. The work of the Forum is driven by its members and the issues that they have identified as being critical to examine to support sustainable jobs growth in the retail sector.
263. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the key measures taken to support the tourism and hospitality sector since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53462/26]
View answerMy Department’s primary responsibility in the tourism and hospitality sectors is the development of policy. In December 2025, I launched A New Era for Irish Tourism, the Government’s new tourism policy framework to 2031. This ambitious and forward-looking policy sets out a clear vision for increasing visitor numbers, tourism revenue and employment, while ensuring balanced regional development and supporting sustainable growth across all parts of the country.
To drive implementation of the policy, a new Tourism Policy Oversight Group has been established. On 8 July, I chaired the Group’s inaugural meeting, marking an important step in overseeing delivery of the policy’s objectives. In addition, progress across the key priority areas will be advanced through five thematic delivery streams: Culinary, Data and Insights, Sustainability, Market Development and Capacity, and State Assets and Strategic Enablement.
The policy identifies a range of strategic priorities, including digital innovation, culinary tourism, strategic air access, off-peak and regional tourism growth, skills development, improved employment quality, and investment in sustainable tourism infrastructure. Increased funding provided through Budget 2026 is enabling the tourism agencies to expand initiatives across these areas and support the successful implementation of the policy.
A key priority under the framework is the development of a new Culinary Strategy. This strategy aims to strengthen Ireland’s food and drink offering, enhance the visitor experience, support regional and year-round tourism, and further position Ireland as a leading food and drink destination. The initiative will deliver benefits for businesses throughout the country and will be closely aligned with both domestic and international tourism marketing programmes.
In August 2025, the Government launched its Action Plan on Market Diversification, which sets out targeted measures to expand tourism from mainland Europe and other international markets, reducing over-reliance on any single source market. While maintaining strong performance in the United States and Great Britain, Tourism Ireland is increasing its focus on mainland Europe, developing Canada as a key growth market, and laying the foundations for long-term growth in markets such as China.
To support these efforts, Budget 2026 allocated €7.5 million under the Overseas Tourism Marketing Fund for market diversification initiatives. This investment will enable Tourism Ireland to expand activity in strategic source markets and attract higher-value visitors to Ireland. As part of this allocation, €1.25 million has been secured for the Strategic Air Access Fund. Working with airports and airline partners, Tourism Ireland has identified opportunities for new and expanded air services, including long-haul routes from Asia. The fund will support cooperative marketing and route development initiatives designed to stimulate demand and maximise economic returns. This includes leveraging new connectivity such as the China Eastern Airlines Shanghai to Dublin service, due to commence this month. As the first direct air link between Shanghai and Dublin, this route presents significant opportunities to grow tourism from China.
The Government also continues to support festivals and events as important drivers of regional tourism. Under the 2026 Regional Festivals Fund, administered by Fáilte Ireland, €623,250 is being provided to 31 local authorities, supporting approximately 250 festivals nationwide. This represents an increase on 2025 funding levels and ensures that every local authority receives a minimum allocation of €10,000 to support local festival activity.
Furthermore, an additional €310,000 has been made available in 2026 specifically to support food festivals, helping to strengthen Ireland’s evolving culinary tourism offering and further develop regional tourism experiences.
The Government recognises the significant challenges faced by the hospitality sector in recent years, including rising operating costs and wider economic pressures. A competitive economy requires a tax policy that supports enterprise and employment. Accordingly, Budget 2026 introduced a range of targeted measures to strengthen the sector, including a reduction in the VAT rate for hospitality services from 13.5% to 9%, effective from July 2026. This measure is particularly important for small and family-run businesses, many of which operate on very tight margins.
Supporting small businesses, sustaining employment and ensuring the continued growth and resilience of Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector remain central to the Government’s commitment to building a strong and competitive economy.
265. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the key measures taken in the area of consumer affairs and competition since January 2025; his priorities for same for the rest of 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53464/26]
View answerProtecting consumers and promoting effective competition remain key priorities for my Department. Since January 2025, substantial progress has been made in strengthening Ireland's consumer protection and competition framework. This work supports the Government's commitments under the Programme for Government and the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity to strengthen competition, enhance consumer protection, reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and improve the functioning of markets for consumers and businesses.
The principal measures taken to date, together with priorities for the remainder of 2026, are outlined below.
Consumer protection and EU legislation
Since January 2025, a number of important consumer protection and market surveillance measures have been advanced, including:
• During 2025, the transposition of the European Communities (Simple Pressure Vessels) (Amendment) Regulations 2025 and the European Communities (Aerosol Dispensers) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, strengthening product safety, compliance and market surveillance frameworks for products placed on the EU market.
• During 2025, the transposition of the European Communities (Noise Emission by Equipment for Use Outdoors) (Amendment) Regulations 2025, updating the regulatory framework for noise emissions reporting in line with EU requirements.
• In March 2026, the transposition of the European Union (Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition) Regulations 2026 was finalised, supporting consumers to make more informed and sustainable purchasing decisions as part of the European Green Deal.
• During 2025, negotiations were completed on the Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes and Toy Safety files, with transposition work due to commence in the coming months.
• Work is also ongoing on the transposition of the Right to Repair Directive, with a view to meeting the transposition deadline of 31 July 2026. This measure, together with the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition and Ecodesign for Sustainable Products initiatives, forms part of broader EU efforts to promote more sustainable consumption.
Competition policy and market regulation
Significant measures have also been taken to strengthen Ireland's competition framework and reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens:
• In June 2026, I signed a Ministerial Order increasing the thresholds for mandatory merger notification to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). This followed a public consultation process and will reduce administrative burdens on business while allowing the CCPC to focus its resources on mergers most likely to have a distortive effect on competition.
• The CCPC continues to retain its statutory power under the Competition (Amendment) Act 2022 to call in below-threshold mergers where there is a potential risk to competition.
• Ireland has continued to support implementation of the EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation, which is designed to ensure a level playing field for businesses operating in the EU Single Market by enabling the European Commission to investigate subsidies granted by third countries.
• In June 2026, I signed warrants of appointment to ensure Ireland has authorised officers available to assist European Commission investigations under the Regulation where required.
• Ireland will continue to engage with the European Commission and Member States on the ongoing review of the Regulation during its EU Presidency.
Priorities for the remainder of 2026
Legislative programme
My priorities for the remainder of 2026 include:
• Progressing the development of the Consumer Protection, Competition and Enforcement Bill, which will:
- strengthen the CCPC's ability to enforce consumer protection law through the introduction of an administrative sanctions regime;
- support the detection of bid-rigging in public procurement through screening mechanisms designed to identify potentially anti-competitive bidding patterns; and
- enhance pricing transparency and related consumer information.
• These measures will support more effective enforcement of competition and consumer protection law, help secure better value in public procurement and contribute to a fairer and more transparent marketplace for consumers and businesses.
Ireland's EU Presidency
During Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union:
• Ireland will chair a number of competition and consumer policy working parties.
• Competition working parties will consider the operation of key elements of the EU competition framework and examine opportunities to modernise competition rules to ensure they continue to deliver effective competition across European markets.
• Consumer working parties will begin discussions on the European Commission's proposed Digital Fairness Act, which seeks to strengthen and simplify consumer protection in the online environment, and will also consider proposals to review the Consumer Protection Cooperation Regulation.
• The EU Product Act is expected to be published in September 2026 and will be progressed by the Working Party on Competitiveness and Growth – Internal Market.
• In October 2026, Ireland will host European Competition Day, bringing together national competition authorities from across the European Union to discuss key competition policy issues.
• In November 2026, Ireland will host the EU Consumer Summit, a major stakeholder event focused on consumer issues in the digital economy, which is expected to attract over 300 representatives from across the consumer policy community.
• In November 2026, I will also chair an Informal Consumer Affairs Ministerial Meeting, bringing together EU Consumer Affairs Ministers for focused discussions on key consumer policy and legislative issues.
CCPC achievements
The CCPC has delivered a number of significant outcomes during this period in support of my Department's objectives.
Research, analysis and market monitoring
• In late 2025, the CCPC published its landmark State of Competition in Ireland report, providing detailed insights into competition in the non-financial services sector over the period 2008–2022 and delivering on a commitment in the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity.
• In August 2025, the CCPC published an updated analysis of the Irish grocery sector. While noting significant food price inflation in recent years, the analysis found no evidence that competition is not functioning effectively in the grocery retail market and confirmed that continued monitoring of the sector remains warranted.
• In March 2026, the CCPC published its Fuel Report in response to concerns regarding fuel prices. The report concluded that recent increases were primarily driven by wholesale costs rather than competition concerns.
Enforcement and consumer protection outcomes
Among the CCPC's key achievements were:
• Securing a significant competition enforcement outcome, with five school bus operators found guilty by a jury of anti-competitive bid-rigging practices following a CCPC investigation.
• Securing five successful consumer protection prosecutions, including the first cases taken under new sales pricing legislation, involving major retailers including Boots, Lifestyle Sports, DID Electrical Appliances and Rathwood Home & Garden.
• Conducting 270 inspections nationwide during 2025, representing a 31% increase on 2024 levels and supporting stronger consumer protection and market surveillance enforcement.
• Continuing product safety enforcement activity, including action to remove unsafe and non-compliant consumer products from the market.
• Securing redress for more than 5,600 consumers following intervention in relation to incorrect gift voucher expiry practices operated by JD Sports.
Demonstrating impact
• On 30 January 2026, the CCPC published its Impact Assessment Report 2021–2024, which estimated that its interventions and consumer information services delivered €682 million in direct benefits to consumers over the four-year period.
• These benefits were delivered at a cost of approximately €32 million, representing a benefit-to-cost ratio of 21:1.
• The report found that competition law enforcement accounted for approximately €463 million in benefits, while consumer protection measures generated a further €220 million.
Strengthening the CCPC
To ensure the CCPC can continue to deliver on its mandate:
• During 2025, my Department worked closely with the CCPC to complete a review of its senior leadership structure.
• During 2025, I appointed a new Member of the CCPC, further strengthening its senior leadership team.
• Approval was also provided for two Senior Director posts to enhance the organisation's executive capacity.
• During 2025 and 2026, provisions of the Competition (Amendment) Act 2022 were implemented to support the new administrative enforcement regime, including the appointment of a Chief Adjudication Officer and adjudication officers.
Taken together, these measures demonstrate significant progress in delivering on Programme for Government commitments and the Action Plan on Competitiveness and Productivity. Through legislative reform, stronger enforcement, enhanced consumer protections and active engagement at EU level, my Department and the CCPC are continuing to promote competitive, transparent and well-functioning markets that support consumers, businesses and the wider economy. This work will continue throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
