Written Answers Nos. 29-52
29. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport to outline the proposals and targets for the number of electric EVs and solar vehicles in Ireland by 2030; if there will be sufficient infrastructure in place for these electric vehicles to be charged at sufficient locations throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12993/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is fully committed to Ireland’s ambitious targets under the Climate Action Plan 2023 to have an expected 30% of our private car fleet switched to electric by 2030.
The Department of Transport provides a generous range of incentives to support drivers’ transition to electric, including:
• a purchase grant for battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
• a home charging scheme
• an apartment charging scheme
• benefit-in-kind tax relief for BEVs
• VRT relief of up to €5,000 for BEVs
• a low rate of annual motor tax.
From a business perspective there are also supports available including:
• a grant for taxi drivers to make the switch to an EV
• a fleet assessment grant to help businesses explore the transition to EVs
• a grant for HDVs to bridge the gap between a zero emission vehicle and a fossil fuel vehicle.
Having an effective and reliable charging network is also an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
In order to achieve Ireland’s EU targets under AFIR, it is expected that there will be 3,200 – 6,210 public chargers required nationally by 2030, depending on the level of power supplied at each. AFIR requirements currently state that there should be 1.3kW of capacity on the national network per BEV and 0.8kW capacity per PHEV.
In 2026, ZEVI will publish and begin implementing a refreshed national strategy that sets out the next phase of Ireland’s EV-charging infrastructure rollout. This updated strategy will build on the progress of recent years under the 2022-25 National EV Infrastructure Charging Strategy and ensure charging infrastructure keeps pace with the rapidly growing level of EV adoption in Ireland.
This strategy is currently being finalised by ZEVI with a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 to be published for public consultation in the coming month.
30. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will stop enabling US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to use Shannon Airport to deport Palestinians; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12200/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra31. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will stop enabling US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to use Shannon Airport in view of its aggression towards Irish citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12203/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 31 together.
The Convention on International Civil Aviation signed at Chicago on 7 December 1944, and its associated annexes, established the framework for the operation of international civil aviation. Both Ireland and the United States are contracting parties to this Convention.
Article 5 of this Convention provides for the right of air operators of contracting parties to operate non-scheduled overflights and stops for non-traffic purposes (e.g., refuelling) in the territory of the other contracting parties.
This provision is provided for in Irish law in Article 3 of the Air Services Authorisation Order 1993.
Stops at Irish airports, by private and commercial charters, which are technical stops for non-traffic purposes (i.e. not picking up or setting down passengers), do not require prior authorisation from my Department.
32. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport the funding allocated to NGOs by his Department in 2025; the funding allocated to NGOs by agencies and bodies under the remit of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13095/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table:
|
Non-Governmental Organisations |
2,025 |
|
Variety Ireland – relates to their Recycle Mobility Programme |
€ 150,000 |
|
An Taisce (funded through NTA) - relates to Green Schools Travel and Safe Routes to School Programme |
€ 2,367,970 |
|
Mountain Rescue/Community Rescue Boats Maintenance Grants |
|
|
Donegal Mountain Rescue |
€ 22,210 |
|
Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Rescue |
€ 32,155 |
|
Galway Mountain Rescue |
€ 18,130 |
|
Glen of Imaal Mountain Rescue |
€ 32,410 |
|
Irish Cave Rescue Organisation |
€ 20,000 |
|
Kerry Mountain Rescue |
€ 21,700 |
|
Mayo Mountain Rescue |
€ 25,525 |
|
Search and Rescue Dog Association |
€ 19,405 |
|
Sligo & Leitrim Mountain Rescue |
€ 17,620 |
|
South Eastern Mountain Rescue Association |
€ 20,935 |
|
Mountain Rescue Ireland |
€ 127,426 |
|
Mountain Rescue Ireland (Development grant) |
€ 20,000 |
|
Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Ballybunion Sea Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Banna Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Bantry Inshore Search and Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Bonmahon Community Rescue Boats |
€ 5,075 |
|
Corrib Mask Search and Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Derrynane Inshore Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Limerick Marine Search and Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Tramore Sea Rescue Association |
€ 5,075 |
|
Waterford City River Rescue |
€ 5,075 |
|
Community Rescue Boats Ballinskelligs One Off |
€ 3,965 |
|
Community Rescue Boats Corrib Mask One Off |
€ 3,965 |
|
Community Rescue Boats Waterford One Off |
€ 3,965 |
|
CALSTART inc - Contribution to Support Global MOU on ZE-MHDVs |
€ 44,780 |
|
Total |
€ 3,002,911 |
With regard to the Agencies under my remit, this is a matter for the Agencies themselves. My office will forward your question to them for their direct response. If the Deputy has not received a reply within ten working days, please contact my private office.
33. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport to consider expanding the Local Link Anseo service to cover Thurles, County Tipperary, given the need for public transport in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13146/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport I recognise the importance of boosting connectivity in County Mayo. In 2025, with funding under the Climate Action Fund, the NTA implemented a pilot Smart DRT service in three areas as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan.
Using the ‘TFI Anseo’ app, passengers in Achill, Killarney Town and north east of Limerick City are now able to book on-demand rides with ease, bringing the convenience of modern rideshare together with reliability and affordability of public transport. For rural areas and communities, this has the huge potential to integrate ‘first and last mile’ connections.
Each of the pilots will run for one year and will then be reviewed before consideration is given to adopting the app on existing Local Link DRT services and to expanding it's use to other areas.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for the provision of rural transport services, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
34. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport to consider making additional funding available to the NTA for the expansion of Local Link services, the enhancement of existing services and the introduction of new services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13147/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.
Under Budget 2026, a funding package of €940 million was secured for Public Service Obligation (PSO) and TFI Local Link services (a 43% increase from €658.442 million in 2025). This will further support subsidised bus and rail services across Ireland, while maintaining targeted fares - including initiatives such as the recently introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9, and the Young Adult Card for those aged 19 – 25, as part of the NTA's National Fares Strategy. €31 million was also secured for continued investment in the rural transport programme in 2026 – a 38% increase on last year’s funding.
The Department continues to engage with the NTA as they finalise their 2026 service plan, ensuring that planning and strategic decisions are informed by both operational and resource considerations.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing and monitoring the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
35. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport if he can liaise with Irish Rail on plans to improve the WiFi service on the Cork-Dublin train service, where many commuters availing of this service for business purposes are currently experiencing a very poor service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13188/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
36. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide clarity in relation to the driving licence of a person (details supplied) who has been refused an application to lift a code 78 restriction, despite their understanding of regulations commenced in November 2020 allowing for this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13348/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports I wish to advise that that all enquiries related to driver licensing are handled by the National Driver Licence Service, provision of which is delegated under national legislation to the Road Safety Authority. Neither I nor the Department have any role in individual driving licence applications.
I have referred this matter to the Authority for direct reply. Please contact my office if a reply has not been received from the RSA in the next ten days.
I can, however, outline the general provisions relating to higher category driving licences and code 78. A change to testing of group 2 (bus and truck) drivers came into effect in 2013, which added some elements to the driving test. One change was the demonstration of driving to ensure safety and to reduce fuel consumption and emissions during acceleration, deceleration, uphill and downhill driving, when necessary, by selecting gears manually.
SI 489 of 2020 provides that if an applicant completes their D category driving test in a vehicle with automatic transmission, they will be issued with a licence for driving automatic transmission vehicles only, unless they already hold a licence for driving manual transmission vehicles in any of the categories B, BE, C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1 or D1E, having completed their test since 1 November 2013. This regulation is based on Commission Directive 2020/612 of 4 May 2020.
The provision is confined to applicants who completed their test since 1 November 2013. As the test was revised on this date, tests completed before then are not within the scope of the Regulations.
37. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will give further urgent consideration to the request of local authorities, such as Cavan and Monaghan, for a substantial increase in funding for the non-national road network for 2026 taking into account the further deterioration in road surfaces due to the ongoing consistent and heavy rainfall which impacts severely particularly on areas that do not have free draining soils due to drumlin terrain such as Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13409/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority and Exchequer funding is intended to supplement local authorities’ own resources.
On 17th February I announced an Exchequer investment of €718 million in our regional and local roads across the State. This will facilitate an increase in funding allocation of €26 million this year for road protection and renewal works.
Within the budget available for the regional and local road grant programme, the objective is to allocate funding to eligible local authorities on as equitable a basis as possible taking the length of the road network into account. The main focus of the grants continues to be the protection and renewal of the regional and local road network.
In 2026, Cavan County Council received an allocation of €19,165,275 which is an increase of 14% when compared to 2022 and Monaghan County Council received an allocation of €17,231,600 which is an increase of 8.6% when compared to 2022.
Full details of the 2026 regional and local grant allocations are available at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-transport/press-releases/ministers-for-transport-announce-over-15-billion-for-national-regional-and-local-roads/
Government is committed to assisting affected local authorities in the aftermath of Storm Chandra. My Department is liaising with affected counties, who are continuing to compile and assess damage on the ground to enable proper estimation of the total damage caused and the estimated cost of remediation.
It should be noted that Exchequer funding for regional and local roads is intended to supplement realistic contributions from local authorities’ own resources. Local authorities are also advised to set aside a contingency from Department allocations and own resources for severe weather events. As the statutory road authorities for their areas, it is also open to local authorities to prioritise investment on regional and local roads.
38. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport whether Córas Iompair Éireann implement the terms of the 1993 Board meeting regarding the CIÉ Rationalisation Agreement, including annual increases to pensions in payment, in the interim period (1993 to 2000) pre the enactment of S.I.323/2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13411/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
In light of the CIÉ’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the CIÉ for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
39. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the funding allocated to NGOs by his Department in 2025; the funding allocated to NGOs by agencies and bodies under the remit of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13085/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that there was no funding allocated to NGOs by my department or bodies under the aegis of my department in 2025 .
40. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding the Government savings and investment strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13134/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Savings and Investments Union aims to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. The project also aims to deepen the pools of capital available for investment in businesses across Europe, grow the European economy and benefit our strategic objectives. In March last year, the European Commission launched the SIU Strategy, which included a number of measures to advance the Capital Markets Union project. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a Recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.
Ireland is committed to support initiatives that enhance retail investor participation in capital markets. As such, I strongly welcome the publication of this Recommendation. Savings and Investment Accounts (SIA) can offer a user-friendly account that will empower citizens to make informed decisions, strengthen investment culture across the EU and support citizens to prepare for big life events. While Ireland does not have a specific investment account for retail investors at present, the tax treatment of retail investments was considered as part of a broader review into the funds and asset management sector in Ireland, which culminated in the ‘Funds Sector 2030’ report that was published in October 2024.
In recognition of the importance of encouraging retail investment, Finance Bill 2025 provided for a reduction in the rate of taxation on returns from Irish and equivalent investment funds and Irish and certain foreign life assurance policies from 41% to 38%.
As part of Budget 2026, the government announced its intention to publish a roadmap in 2026, setting out the intended approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to encourage retail investment in future Finance Bills. The roadmap will take into consideration developments at EU level in respect of the Savings and Investments Union, including the Recommendation on the availability of Saving and Investment Accounts and draw upon best practice in other countries who operate successful savings accounts. I look forward to receiving proposals on this shortly.
I am also acutely aware that part of the reason why retail participation in markets is limited, while at the same time Ireland is currently ranked as one of the top EU Member States in terms of savings held in deposit accounts, is owing to a lack of awareness of these products and in some cases the complexity of some of the products can also dissuade retail consumers. As such it will be a priority of the government to promote financial literacy and widen retail investment across the country. This will assist in ensuring savings could be invested for the benefit of individuals as well as the European economy.
Financial literacy is an essential life skill and important component of financial consumer protection. Ireland last February launched Ireland’s first National Financial Literacy Strategy. In this regard, Ireland welcomes the Commission’s financial literacy strategy, which will aim to empower citizens, raise awareness and increase their participation in capital markets.
These proposals, together with the roadmap which I have already mentioned will be key to providing Irish households with more and safer opportunities to invest in and increase the value of their savings.
41. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his views on whether the existing rate of capital gains tax acts as a disincentive for investment for Irish people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13135/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra42. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding any review of the existing rate of capital gains tax as part of the Government savings and investment strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13136/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 42 together.
I am aware of the need to encourage and support retail investment.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is chargeable on a gain arising on the disposal of an asset, including a residential property or shares in a company, at the rate of 33%. The first €1,270 of chargeable gains of an individual in any year are exempt from CGT. The existence of a 33% rate of CGT can help maintain a balance between the rate of taxation of capital assets and the higher rate of income tax. There are a number of targeted reliefs including principal private residence relief, retirement relief and revised entrepreneur relief. Exemptions often require a higher rate in order to generate an appropriate yield.
The Programme for Government commits to maintaining a broad tax base to guard against the need for counter-cyclical fiscal policy in the event of a downturn and to prepare for future budgetary challenges relating to population aging. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is part of a system to ensure taxation is not focused solely on income tax and that those who benefit from gains in the value of their assets are included within the tax net on an equitable basis. As with all taxes, CGT is subject to ongoing review, which involves the consideration and assessment of the rate of CGT and the relevant reliefs and exemptions from CGT as part of the annual Budget and Finance Bill process, and this is considered in the wider tax policy context.
In terms of investment, I would note that CGT applies to a gain arising from the disposal of a direct investment such as a share, while different taxation regimes apply to investments made through investment funds or life assurance products. Budget 2026 included a reduction in the rate of tax that applies to such investments from 41% to 38%. In addition, Budget 2026 included a commitment to publish a roadmap for the taxation of retail investment. Work is continuing on this roadmap, which will set out an approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to further support retail investment while retaining necessary and important anti-avoidance protections in a proportionate manner. The roadmap will take into account the European Commission’s recommendation on Savings and Investment Accounts, and is expected to be published in the coming months. I hope further progress can be made to address some of the existing obstacles to greater retail investment over future budgets.
43. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding a timeline for the publication of the Government savings and investment strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13137/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Savings and Investments Union aims to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. The project also aims to deepen the pools of capital available for investment in businesses across Europe, grow the European economy and benefit our strategic objectives. In March last year, the European Commission launched the SIU Strategy, which included a number of measures to advance the Capital Markets Union project. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a Recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.
Ireland is committed to support initiatives that enhance retail investor participation in capital markets. As such, I strongly welcome the publication of this Recommendation. Savings and Investment Accounts (SIA) can offer a a user-friendly account that will empower citizens to make informed decisions, strengthen investment culture across the EU and support citizens to prepare for big life events. While Ireland does not have a specific investment account for retail investors at present, the tax treatment of retail investments was considered as part of a broader review into the funds and asset management sector in Ireland, which culminated in the ‘Funds Sector 2030’ report that was published in October 2024.
In recognition of the importance of encouraging retail investment, Finance Bill 2025 provided for a reduction in the rate of taxation on returns from Irish and equivalent investment funds and Irish and certain foreign life assurance policies from 41% to 38%.
As part of Budget 2026, the government announced its intention to publish a roadmap, this will be published in the coming months and is going to set out the intended approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to encourage retail investment in future Finance Bills. The roadmap will take into consideration developments at EU level in respect of the Savings and Investments Union, including the Recommendation on the availability of Saving and Investment Accounts and draw upon best practice in other countries who operate successful savings accounts. I look forward to receiving proposals on this shortly.
44. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding the parameters of the review of the Government savings and investment strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13138/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Savings and Investments Union aims to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. The project also aims to deepen the pools of capital available for investment in businesses across Europe, grow the European economy and benefit our strategic objectives. In March last year, the European Commission launched the SIU Strategy, which included a number of measures to advance the Capital Markets Union project. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a Recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.
Ireland is committed to support initiatives that enhance retail investor participation in capital markets. As such, I strongly welcome the publication of this Recommendation. Savings and Investment Accounts (SIA) can offer a user-friendly account that will empower citizens to make informed decisions, strengthen investment culture across the EU and support citizens to prepare for big life events. While Ireland does not have a specific investment account for retail investors at present, the tax treatment of retail investments was considered as part of a broader review into the funds and asset management sector in Ireland, which culminated in the ‘Funds Sector 2030’ report that was published in October 2024.
In recognition of the importance of encouraging retail investment, Finance Bill 2025 provided for a reduction in the rate of taxation on returns from Irish and equivalent investment funds and Irish and certain foreign life assurance policies from 41% to 38%.
As part of Budget 2026, the government announced its intention to publish a roadmap in 2026, setting out the intended approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to encourage retail investment in future Finance Bills. The roadmap will take into consideration developments at EU level in respect of the Savings and Investments Union, including the Recommendation on the availability of Saving and Investment Accounts and draw upon best practice in other countries who operate successful savings accounts. I look forward to receiving proposals on this shortly.
I am also acutely aware that part of the reason why retail participation in markets is limited, while at the same time Ireland is currently ranked as one of the top EU Member States in terms of savings held in deposit accounts, is owing to a lack of awareness of these products and in some cases the complexity of some of the products can also dissuade retail consumers. As such it will be a priority of the government to promote financial literacy and widen retail investment across the country. This will assist in ensuring savings could be invested for the benefit of individuals as well as the European economy.
Financial literacy is an essential life skill and important component of financial consumer protection. Ireland last February launched Ireland’s first National Financial Literacy Strategy. In this regard, Ireland welcomes the Commission’s financial literacy strategy, which will aim to empower citizens, raise awareness and increase their participation in capital markets.
These proposals, together with the roadmap which I have already mentioned will be key to providing Irish households with more and safer opportunities to invest in and increase the value of their savings.
45. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding any stakeholder engagement he proposes as part of the review of the Government savings and investment strategy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13139/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Savings and Investments Union aims to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. The project also aims to deepen the pools of capital available for investment in businesses across Europe, grow the European economy and benefit our strategic objectives. In March last year, the European Commission launched the SIU Strategy, which included a number of measures to advance the Capital Markets Union project. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a Recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.
Ireland is committed to support initiatives that enhance retail investor participation in capital markets. As such, I strongly welcome the publication of this Recommendation. Savings and Investment Accounts (SIA) can offer a user-friendly account that will empower citizens to make informed decisions, strengthen investment culture across the EU and support citizens to prepare for big life events. The framework is in early stages of development and will require consultation with a wide variety of stakeholders in the coming months. While Ireland does not have a specific investment account for retail investors at present, the tax treatment of retail investments was considered as part of a broader review into the funds and asset management sector in Ireland, which culminated in the ‘Funds Sector 2030’ report that was published in October 2024.
In recognition of the importance of encouraging retail investment, Finance Bill 2025 provided for a reduction in the rate of taxation on returns from Irish and equivalent investment funds and Irish and certain foreign life assurance policies from 41% to 38%.
As part of Budget 2026, the government announced its intention to publish a roadmap in 2026, setting out the intended approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to encourage retail investment in future Finance Bills. The roadmap will take into consideration developments at EU level in respect of the Savings and Investments Union, including the Recommendation on the availability of Saving and Investment Accounts and draw upon best practice in other countries who operate successful savings accounts. I look forward to receiving proposals on this shortly.
The Funds Review 2030 which was published in October 2024. The review identified forty-two recommendations to continue to grow this important sector of our economy. Number twenty-one on the list of recommendations was that an annual savings and investment forum should be established.
The Savings and Investment Forum will be led by the Department of Finance with support from the Central Bank of Ireland and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. It is anticipated that the attendees will be a mix of asset managers, wealth managers, financial planners, digital platforms, banks, insurance firms and pension firms, as well as Government and regulatory officials. The forum will provide the opportunity to discuss the current investment landscape in Ireland. My officials are currently finalising plans to host the first meeting of the forum, which I will chair, and I hope to announce a date for the event shortly with invites to be issued thereafter.
46. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if companies (details supplied) are in receipt of moneys from the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) via or through its investments in third party funds; if any ISIF monies, directly, indirectly or via third party funds or equity, are invested in any entity currently seeking planning permission for the proposed Ballycar, Oatfield or Knockshanvo wind farms located in County Clare; if the companies or entities are allowed to use said monies to fund expenses (including legal representation, engineering reports and expert consultant opinions) they are incurring as part of their quest to obtain planning permission from An Coimisiún Pleanála to develop wind farms in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13172/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has informed me that the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) discloses its investments annually in the NTMA Annual Report.
ISIF constructs its portfolio in accordance with its statutory mandate to invest on a commercial basis in a manner designed to support economic activity and employment in Ireland.
It achieves this through a range of mechanisms, including investing directly in individual businesses and investing alongside co-investors in funds, platforms or other collective investment vehicles which subsequently invest capital on behalf of ISIF and other investors.
Investment decisions taken by vehicles of this nature are made on a commercial basis independently of ISIF and are a matter for the vehicles concerned.
As a commercial investor, ISIF cannot disclose commercially sensitive information related to its investments.
47. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if the State currently applies, or can lawfully apply, a VAT credit, i.e. a tax credit which businesses can apply against VAT liabilities. [13294/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the VAT treatment of goods and services is subject to EU VAT law, with which Irish VAT law is obliged to comply.
In general, the VAT Directive provides that all goods and services are liable to VAT at the standard rate unless they are exempt from VAT or fall within Annex III of the Directive, in which case lower VAT rates may apply subject to certain rules.
I understand from the Revenue Commissioners that VAT-registered businesses are generally entitled to recover any VAT they incur on goods and services used in the course of their taxable business, subject to the normal rules on deductibility.
Therefore, generally the VAT incurred on goods and services used in the course of their taxable business is a VAT credit, i.e. a tax credit which VAT-registered businesses can apply against VAT liabilities.
48. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to provide details of any refundable or cash-redeemable tax credits available to businesses; and if his Department has examined the potential to make more use of refundable or cash-redeemable tax credits as an alternative to direct business grant for specific purposes. [13295/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Research and Development (R&D) tax credit, the Film tax credit, the tax credit for Unscripted Production and the tax credit for Digital Games, are examples of tax measures that provide cash refunds to companies.
The Research and Development (R&D) tax credit, which was first introduced in 2004, is a broad measure that provides companies with a tax credit equal to 35 per cent of the qualifying expenditure incurred on qualifying R&D activities. The R&D tax credit is an important feature of the Irish corporation tax system. It forms part of a suite of corporation tax measures that ensures Ireland remains an attractive location for both domestic and inward investment and building an innovation-driven domestic enterprise sector.
The R&D tax credit has grown and evolved since its introduction in response to stakeholder feedback and, in 2022, it was restructured to align with the newly agreed international definitions of ‘Qualified Refundable Tax Credits’. The credit is generally payable over three years, with 50% payable in year one, 30% in year two and the final 20% in year three. A new first-year payment threshold was also introduced in 2022 and has subsequently been increased. From 2026, claims for the R&D tax credit of up to €87,500 are payable in full in the first year of claim as opposed to being paid over 3 years. The first-year payment threshold therefore accelerates the payment of the R&D credit due to companies with smaller claims, providing a cash-flow benefit to smaller R&D projects.
There are three refundable tax credits available to the audio-visual sector. The Section 481 Film tax credit, the tax credit for Unscripted Production and the tax credit for Digital Games.
Section 481 supports the production of certain film, tv and animation projects. The credit is available at a rate of 32% of eligible expenditure of up to €125 million per project. There is also a 40% Scéal Uplift rate available for smaller feature film productions, subject to certain conditions. A new rate of 40% for certain Visual Effects work was also announced as part of Budget 2026, the introduction of which is subject to European Commission approval.
The tax credit for Unscripted Production, commenced in December 2025, is available at a rate of 20 percent of certain production expenditure of up to €15 million per project. The credit is intended to support the continued growth of the domestic audio-visual sector in Ireland.
Finance Act 2021 introduced Section 481A - a refundable tax credit for the digital gaming sector. The relief is granted at a rate of 32 per cent of eligible expenditure of up to €25 million. The relief is granted at a rate of 32 per cent of eligible expenditure of up to €25 million. Budget 2026 provided for the extension of this credit to certain post-release development expenditure, subject to European Commission approval.
Tax expenditures are policy instruments used to promote specific social or economic goals that substitute for direct spending; typically, they take the form of tax exemptions, allowances, credits, or preferential rates. Government policy is based on the principle that tax expenditures should be used in limited circumstances where a demonstrable market failure exists, and the measure would be more efficient than a direct expenditure intervention. It should be noted that direct expenditure via grants and other forms of assistance, in line with State aid rules, can sometimes be more effective in achieving policy objectives than the granting of tax incentives or provide greater scope for targeting and/or transparency.
The aforementioned tax incentives are complemented by a much wider range of Government business supports provided by State bodies such as, for example, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA. This includes grant schemes, State equity investments, credit schemes and loan guarantees, advisory services, training programmes and networking facilitation for example.
Any decisions regarding taxation measures are made in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill processes, at the appropriate time, and having regard to the sound management of the public finances.
49. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to set out the timelines for preparation and publication of the proposed Savings & Investment Strategy and the Roadmap on Taxation of Retail Investment. [13296/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Savings and Investments Union aims to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. The project also aims to deepen the pools of capital available for investment in businesses across Europe, grow the European economy and benefit our strategic objectives. In March last year, the European Commission launched the SIU Strategy, which included a number of measures to advance the Capital Markets Union project. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a Recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.
Ireland is committed to support initiatives that enhance retail investor participation in capital markets. As such, I strongly welcome the publication of this Recommendation. Savings and Investment Accounts (SIA) can offer a a user-friendly account that will empower citizens to make informed decisions, strengthen investment culture across the EU and support citizens to prepare for big life events. While Ireland does not have a specific investment account for retail investors at present, the tax treatment of retail investments was considered as part of a broader review into the funds and asset management sector in Ireland, which culminated in the ‘Funds Sector 2030’ report that was published in October 2024.
In recognition of the importance of encouraging retail investment, Finance Bill 2025 provided for a reduction in the rate of taxation on returns from Irish and equivalent investment funds and Irish and certain foreign life assurance policies from 41% to 38%.
As part of Budget 2026, the government announced its intention to publish a roadmap, this will be published in the coming months and is going to set out the intended approach to simplify and adapt the tax framework to encourage retail investment in future Finance Bills. The roadmap will take into consideration developments at EU level in respect of the Savings and Investments Union, including the Recommendation on the availability of Saving and Investment Accounts and draw upon best practice in other countries who operate successful savings accounts. I look forward to receiving proposals on this shortly.
50. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to provide an update on the development of the R and D tax compass that was announced as part of budget 2026; whether it is intended that there will be engagement with interested stakeholders as part of this process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13407/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Research and Development Tax Credit and Innovation Compass was published on 16th February 2026 and is available online at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-finance/publications/research-and-development-tax-credit-and-innovation-compass
In line with the Tax Expenditure guidelines, tax measures are reviewed periodically to ensure that they continue to meet their policy objectives and offer taxpayer value for money. The Programme for Government ‘Securing Ireland’s Future’ made a commitment to review the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit regime and to examine options to enhance the R&D tax credit, reward innovation and digitalisation.
This review took place in 2025 and, as part of this process, a public consultation on the ‘R&D Tax Credit and on Options to Support Innovation’ was conducted. Twenty-six responses to the consultation were received from a range of respondents, including companies engaged in R&D activities, advisory firms, representative bodies and Government Departments. The responses to the consultation have been published on my Department’s website. In addition to the consultation, officials from my Department engaged with stakeholders throughout 2025, through meetings, roundtable discussions and prebudget submission meetings. This engagement provided valuable input into policy considerations for enhancing the regime, as provided for in Budget 2026, and helped to inform the pathway for further policy considerations for the R&D regime and on innovation as set out in the Compass.
Stakeholder engagement will continue to be an integral part of the policy development process, and I look forward to the continuing engagement of business stakeholders, advisors and representatives, government bodies and educational and research institutes with my Department as work in this area continues.
51. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to provide a timeline for the completion of the scenario modelling exercise (details supplied) that is currently being conducted by his Department; whether the results of this exercise will be published once complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13408/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is no timeline, instead monitoring the key risks facing the Irish economy is an ongoing process, decisions to publish are taken with regard to the prevailing circumstances.
Scenario analysis is a key component of this, and has become increasingly important in the context of the more challenging geopolitical environment.
From a policy perspective, the changing geopolitical backdrop underscores the need to prioritise actions in those areas that we can exert control: for instance, investing in critical productivity-enhancing infrastructure – in housing, transport, energy and water – in line with the National Development Plan and, crucially, speeding up delivery.
52. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation his views on the impact to public expenditure on Border counties such as Donegal, Cavan, Sligo, Leitrim, and Monaghan, following confirmation from the European Commission that the designation of the wider northern and western region of Ireland is to be upgraded from a “transition region” to a “more developed region” even though the GDP per capita in those counties is 68% of the EU average, on a par with Eastern European regions classified as being “less developed”; and if he will assure the people of those Border counties that they will not lose out on key infrastructural projects due to the ensuing cut in EU co-financing. [12972/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the budgetary process each year, my Department sets overall expenditure ceilings for each Ministerial Vote Group. These are laid out at Vote level in the Budget Day Expenditure Report published in October with further detail provided in the Revised Estimates for Public Services published in December.
Following the allocation of each Ministerial Expenditure Ceiling, it is a matter for each Minister to assign funding as appropriate at programme and subhead level for their Departments and the agencies under their remit, accounting for the demands for services in different areas and regions and having regard to demographics and other relevant factors. Within this process, both current and capital expenditure are allocated on a Departmental basis and not a geographic basis.
More broadly, the achievement of balanced regional development is a key priority of this Government and is at the heart of Project Ireland 2040, which includes the National Planning Framework (NPF).
In line with balanced regional development, the change in designation by the European Commission will mean only that there is a lower contribution by the Commission to certain EU funded projects – 40-50% of the total cost instead of 60-70%. It will not affect project selection or implementation. In addition, the Border Counties will continue to benefit from EU funds where the co-financing rate is not affected by the change in designation, including the European Social Fund and the cross-border PEACEPLUS programme.
Since Project Ireland 2040 was first launched in 2018, the Government has overseen the delivery of many impactful NDP projects across the country, including in the Border Counties. For example, the Dungloe to Glenties road and the Burtonport to Letterkenny Greenway in Donegal, the Collooney to Castlebaldwin road and the Easter Garavogue Bridge in Sligo, the Northern Counties Railway Greenway from Sligo Town through to Blacklion in Cavan and then onto Enniskillin in County Fermanagh. Libraries and Courthouses were expanded on in Cavan and Donegal, mental health services were delivered in Sligo and residential care centres developed in Leitrim and Monaghan. And investment in town centres and urban regeneration projects were completed across all five of these border counties.
The National Development Plan (NDP) review published in July last year, required the publication of sectoral investment plans. These plans have now been published and set out the capital projects to be prioritised from 2026 to 2030, so as to be in line with the objectives of the National Planning Framework (NPF), including in terms of balanced regional development.
The sectoral plans are available on each Departmental webpage on the gov.ie website and will provide the Deputy with further detail on a sectoral basis. These can be assessed for projects across the country – and include for example the Ballyjamesduff Wastewater treatment plant upgrade and the Further Education and Training programme at Cavan Institute in Cavan, investment in the Ten T roads project and Atlantic Technological University in Donegal, the Ardee to Castleblaney South road in Monaghan and investment in the Mayo Sligo Leitrim Further Education and Training Centre at Mohill.
Furthermore, progress in achieving balanced regional development and detailing the delivery of the NDP is monitored through regular updates of the Project Ireland 2040 capital investment tracker and MyProjectIreland interactive map viewer. The capital investment tracker provides a composite update on the progress of all major investments with an estimated cost of greater than €20 million. Accompanying the tracker, the myProjectIreland interactive map details projects across the country and provides details on specific projects by county, and contains smaller investments such as schools, healthcare facilities and social housing projects. Search facilities allow users to view projects in their regional area, by city, by county or by Eircode.
