Written Answers Nos. 383-404
383. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the reason correspondence from a citizen raising issues regarding the digital wallet since July 2025 has not received a substantive answer; and the process that exists for citizens to obtain clear ownership and accountability on digital wallet concerns. [45852/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation is committed to making information available on the digital wallet and the wider digital transition that is underway within the public sector, which mirrors changes in wider society and the changing expectations that citizens bring to their interaction with public bodies in regards the provision of modern, digitally-enabled services.
The Digital Public Services Plan 2030 sets out a detailed roadmap to achieving national targets by 2030, along with the transformative governance and leadership structures that will help deliver it. EU Regulation 2024/1183 underpinning provision of the digital wallet provides clear, transparent and detailed information on the requirements pertaining to the wallet itself, and governance and oversight of its use. In addition to this, the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation has undertaken a wide ranging public consultation that provides an opportunity for all interested parties to engage with and provide feedback on the development of the wallet, the types of use cases that would be more useful to people, and any particular groups of people or types of uses of the wallet that might require particular focus in terms of making sure it is accessible and inclusive. The website for the consultation also provides a wealth of information on the wallet itself, including a lengthy FAQ that is being continuously updated (www.gov.ie/en/department-of-public-expenditure-infrastructure-public-service-reform-and-digitalisation/publications/government-digital-wallet-your-questions-answered/).
384. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he supports the wider adoption of remote and flexible working and ensure security for those with remote and flexible work arrangements against sudden rescinding of these arrangements without a business reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45934/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere has been a lasting shift in attitudes towards remote working in recent years. Central Statistics Office data shows that nearly one million people were working from home, either usually or sometimes, in the first quarter of 2026.
The Government is committed to facilitating remote and flexible working in a way which maximises economic, social and environmental benefits. The Programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland’s Future, re-affirms this commitment to promoting flexible working arrangements that benefit both workers and employers.
Ireland was among the first in the EU to introduce a right to request remote working and this was commenced for all workers through the Work Life Balance Act in March 2024.
Under the Act, employers are obliged to formally consider and respond to requests for remote working arrangements. However, Government has been consistently clear that it cannot determine or dictate to employers which elements of their operations can or should be conducted remotely or on site. Providing a right to request strikes the right balance between flexibility and the need for businesses to remain competitive, profitable and viable.
As you may be aware, my Department recently concluded a statutory review of the operation of the right to request remote working legislation and a report of the review was laid before the Houses on the 5th of March this year.
The review found that when used, the legislation works effectively. The majority of requests (94%) are approved either fully or partially, demonstrating that the legislation can facilitate compromise. The level of administrative burden was also reported to be low.
However, a key finding is that the challenge is awareness, with fewer than half of employees being aware of their right to request remote working.
To address this finding and others identified by the review, my Department will implement recommendations from the review, including a national information campaign to drive awareness and encourage increased use of the legislation. We will also request that the Workplace Relations Commission revise the Code of Practice on remote working to support use of the legislation.
Remote working is further supported by Government through the National Remote Work Strategy, an enhanced income tax deduction for people working from home and investment in Ireland’s national network of remote working hubs and broadband infrastructure. The Department of the Taoiseach has also commissioned NESC to do further work on remote working.
Of course, remote working isn't the only workplace flexibility the Government supports. In January this year, my Department also approved a revised Code of Practice on Access to Part-Time Working, promoting flexible working arrangements and supporting an inclusive and dynamic labour market.
I understand that the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality will also be conducting a review of the flexible working provisions of the Work Life Balance Act in the coming months.
Through these actions, Government will continue to facilitate remote and flexible working arrangements in Ireland.
385. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the steps his Department has taken to advance the action plan for collective bargaining and increase the number of workers in Ireland covered by collective bargaining agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45935/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 5 November 2025, I launched Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining 2026-2030, a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening the country’s well-established system of voluntary industrial relations, one of the first countries in the EU to prepare such a plan.
The Action Plan is an ambitious one, with 22 actions to be delivered over the lifetime of the Plan, including building a research base, building capacity and skills, and other measures to support collective bargaining.
A scoping exercise has been undertaken to identify available resources and key stakeholders to support delivery of the actions in Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining. Officials are engaging with stakeholders, including ICTU and Ibec, to build a robust evidence base to inform policy development.
The Action Plan is being actively implemented on a phased basis and includes a comprehensive monitoring framework to assess progress and impact. A mid-term review is scheduled for 2028 to ensure the Plan remains responsive to evolving labour market conditions and developments in collective bargaining.
A Technical Sub-Group of the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF), comprising officials of my Department and representatives of the Social Partners, meets regularly to monitor progress with implementation. The next meeting of the group is scheduled to take place at the end of June. Issues considered by the Group to date include research, recognition of good practice, tax breaks for workers joining unions, mediation and access.
386. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the cost implications of mandatory registration with Fáilte Ireland under the proposed short-term letting regulatory framework for the classification of short-term letting properties; the way in which such registration may affect the formal categorisation, status or recognition of properties engaged in short-term letting activity; if guidance has been issued, or is planned, to relevant public bodies, including local authorities and Tailte Éireann, regarding the treatment and classification of registered short-term letting properties arising from this change; if consideration is being given to exemptions, thresholds or differentiated treatment for small-scale or owner-occupied short-term letting providers, particularly in rural and island communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44889/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs set out in the Government's new Policy Statement A New Era for Irish Tourism, published in December, the introduction of regulatory controls for the Short Term Letting (STL) Sector is to ensure that the tourism sector develops in a way that recognises and is complementary to the wider needs of local communities, both economically and socially.
In April of last year, I obtained Government approval for the general scheme of the Short-Term Letting and Tourism (STLT) Bill. Once enacted, this Bill will provide a statutory framework for regulating the short-term letting (STL) sector, including the establishment of a national register.
This register, which has been broadly welcomed by the tourism sector, will be implemented and managed by Fáilte Ireland in compliance with the EU Short-Term Rental Regulation. The register will launch on 1 December 2026, with a legal obligation on all operators to register by 31 December 2026. I intend to bring the STLT Bill to Government in the near future to seek approval for publication, and to advance the Bill to enactment by early autumn.
Under the new system, all STL accommodation providers will be required to register with Fáilte Ireland and display their registration number on any listing or advertisement for their property. Upon registration and in line with Article 5 of the EU Short Term Rental Regulation, providers must confirm by self-declaration that national authorisation, in the form of the necessary planning permission, is in place. A nominal annual registration fee will apply.
The new Housing policy, proposed by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne T.D., and approved by Government on 15 April 2025 proposes to generally preclude new planning permissions for STL in cities and larger towns. Further to this, on 9 February last, the Cabinet Committee on Housing proposed to apply this to towns and cities with populations over 20,000 persons at the latest census. These policies are part of a broader Government strategy to increase long-term rental supply and alleviate housing shortages.
Following the introduction of the STL register, accommodation providers based in towns with a population of 20,000 or less at the last census, based on the census town boundaries (defined by CSO), will have two years to meet national authorisation in the form of necessary planning permission.
Accommodation providers based in towns with a population of more than 20,000 at the last census will need to meet national authorisation in the form of necessary planning permission on registration, with no further lead-in period, if they wish to register their STL property with Fáilte Ireland.
In line with existing established rights, where it can be proven that a residential property has been operated by an STL provider for at least 7 years and no enforcement action has been taken by the planning authority, national authorisation in the form of necessary planning permission for retention may be sought.
It will still be possible to sub-let an entire principal private residence on a short-term basis for a cumulative period of 90 days. Where the 90-day threshold is exceeded, national authorisation in the form of necessary planning permission for a change of use is required.
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage will shortly publish a National Planning Statement (NPS) under section 25 of the Planning & Development Act 2024, for short-term letting activity. This will ensure a clear overall policy approach, at national and local authority level, to enable planning authorities to determine planning applications for short-term lets across the Country.
Fáilte Ireland estimates that, approximately 34,020 STL properties were advertised online in the State in October 2025, based on screen-scraped data from four major booking platforms. Up to 64% were listed as “entire” houses or apartments. This represents a 26% increase from an estimated 26,960 units in October 2022. In Galway around 3,560 STL units were listed in October 2025, of which, 65% were advertised as entire properties. This represents a 23% increase from an estimated 2,890 listed in October 2022.
Tourism is a vital part of the Irish economy, supporting 228,700 jobs and generating €5.4 billion in 2025. I fully recognise the concerns regarding the potential impact on tourism economies of reducing short-term letting availability. The approach agreed on 9 February seeks to strike a balance between increasing housing supply and protecting rural and regional tourism, as well as the jobs that depend on it.
My officials will continue to engage with all stakeholders to ensure their concerns are considered carefully, and that any measures introduced deliver a fair and sustainable outcome for communities and the wider economy.
The department has developed a webpage where information is easily accessible for the sector and this is available at www.enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/the-business-environment/tourism/short-term-letting/.
387. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether alumina samples have been taken from a facility (details supplied) as part of his Department’s investigations into the allegations raised by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project; whether such samples are being or have been subjected to forensic analysis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44917/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is currently conducting an investigation into matters relating to the export of alumina to Russia. The Deputy will appreciate that I am not in a position to comment while an investigation is ongoing as this might prejudice its outcome.
388. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the supports, grants, funding schemes and apprenticeship-related incentives currently available to a small rural business owner (details supplied) operating an agricultural machinery repair and hydraulic hose repair business; the supports available for the purchase of workshop equipment, tools and commercial vehicles required for business expansion; the grants or financial assistance available to employers taking on apprentices; whether the business may be eligible for assistance through the local enterprise office, Enterprise Ireland or any other State agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45119/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra389. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if there is any financial assistance available to promote and develop a small business in south Kerry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45137/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 388 and 389 together.
I recommend that any small business owner should contact the National Enterprise Hub (NEH), which helps businesses navigate and access a wide range of government supports available from different Government bodies.
These resources are available through the online portal at www.NEH.gov.ie, or by speaking directly with an advisor who can help assess the specific needs of a business and help signpost them to the most appropriate supports or agencies.
The NEH was established as a signposting service to improve access to supports and reduce friction for business owners.
In addition, I would also point small business owners in Kerry towards the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Tralee.
LEOs offer direct grant assistance to small businesses that are specifically designed for growth or exporting are aimed at those in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors. It should be noted that these cannot be provided to businesses in areas such as personal services, local retail, or local professional services.
LEOs also provide consultancy and grants to small businesses of all sectors, in the areas of Green, Digital and Lean. These grants are focused on providing capital to assist in the implementation of recommendations to digitalise or decarbonise a business. These grants will also enhance the productivity and improve the competitiveness of small businesses particularly in the areas of LEAN, Green, and Digital.
Furthermore, the LEOs offer a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes that are tailored to meet specific business requirements. LEO Mentors are well versed in the wide range of supports that may be available to business owners and provide crucial insights into the business development journey.
Mentors can also assist business owners with applications to Micro-finance Ireland (MFI), which is a not-for-profit lender that offers small business loans for commercially viable proposals. MFI loans can be used to help fund start-up costs, working capital or business expansion and by applying through their Local Enterprise Office, clients can avail of a 1% reduction in the interest rate charged. These loans are available to any business (Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company) with less than 10 employees subject to certain eligibility criteria.
390. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the impact to date of tariffs imposed on Irish products by the current Trump Administration in the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45154/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, through Enterprise Ireland, supports Irish companies to grow their business and secure new opportunities across the globe. We are continuing to closely monitor the impact of tariffs imposed by the United States on EU-origin goods, including Irish exports, in the context of an evolving and uncertain global trading environment.
Enterprise Ireland client companies exported approximately €6.6 billion to the United States in 2024, representing a significant share of overall exports and underlining the importance of the US market for Irish enterprise. Of the approximately 950 Enterprise Ireland client companies exporting to the US, around 450 product-based exporters are assessed as being most directly exposed to tariff impacts, with these companies accounting for an estimated €3.8 billion to €4 billion in goods exports.
Based on ongoing engagement with EI's client companies, the impact of tariffs to date has been variable across sectors and firms. Tariffs have created additional cost pressures, with implications for margins and pricing, particularly in competitive and price-sensitive markets. The impact is further influenced by competitive dynamics, including the position of US-based firms and other international competitors not subject to equivalent tariff measures. More broadly, the tariff environment has contributed to increased uncertainty for businesses, affecting forward planning, investment decisions and supply chain management, alongside a range of indirect impacts including input costs and demand patterns.
Enterprise Ireland continues to actively support client companies through its extensive in-market presence in the United States, including its network of seven offices, and through increased programme activity such as trade missions, targeted events and one-to-one engagements. There have been a number of recent Ministerial-led trade missions and engagements in Texas, New York, Washington and the West Coast which were aimed at strengthening commercial opportunities and supporting companies to maintain and grow their market position.
391. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether for procurement spend, a purchase order can be raised within his Department's financial management systems without reference to a contract, framework agreement, procurement process or other authorising arrangement; if so, the circumstances in which this may occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45163/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra392. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether an invoice can be paid by his Department without an associated purchase order having first been raised; if so, the circumstances in which this may occur; the number and value of payments made during quarter one of 2026 which were not associated with a purchase order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45181/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 391 and 392 together.
The total value of payments made in quarter one of 2026 amounted to €240 million. Of this, €5 million was paid to third-party suppliers, while the remaining €235 million related to payroll, and other payments to bodies under the aegis of the Department.
The Department does not require a purchase order to be raised to allow for a payment to be made. Instead, the control mechanism in place is a payment authorisation form completed by two staff members: the recommending officer who prepares the form, and the authorising officer who approves it within established limits. This sign-off certifies that the payment has been properly sanctioned, is properly due for payment, that the goods or services have been supplied to our satisfaction and in accordance in the contract in place, where relevant.
Staff are regularly reminded of their obligation to ensure that all payments made are in accordance with public procurement requirements.
393. Deputy George Lawlor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of vacant WTE staff, by job title, currently within the Health and Safety Authority; the full yearly costs of filling each of those vacancies; when each of those vacancies will be filled, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45250/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraGovernment investment in recent years has significantly increased the Health and Safety Authority’s sanctioned staffing complement to support its expanding remit, with recruitment progressed on a phased basis to align with funding and operational priorities.
As at 31 May 2026, the Authority has 345 sanctioned posts across both administrative and professional and technical grades. The Authority’s workforce consists of Administration and Inspector grades. Inspector roles include Grade I (Senior Inspector), Grade II and Grade III, and cover all mandates, including occupational health and safety, chemicals, accreditation and market surveillance. Administration grades align with the civil service structure, ranging from Clerical Officer to Principal Officer.
Of the 345 sanctioned posts, 294 are currently filled, with a further five staff due to commence in the coming weeks. A concentrated and comprehensive programme of recruitment is underway, with six live competitions currently at various stages of the process. Competitions for all remaining vacancies are scheduled to be launched by year-end. In some instances, multiple competitions may be required to fill vacancies at the same grade.
The current distribution of vacancies by grade is set out below:
|
Grade |
Vacancies |
|
Programme Manager |
1 |
|
Inspector Grade I |
4 |
|
Inspector Grade II |
11 |
|
Inspector Grade III |
20 |
|
Assistant Principal |
2 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
5 |
|
Executive Officer |
4 |
|
Clerical Officer |
4 |
The cost per annum for each individual grade for which vacancies exist is set out below.
|
Grade |
Salary |
PRSI |
Onboarding Cost |
Total Cost of each vacancy per grade |
|
Programme Manager |
€106,603 |
€12,153 |
€15,000 |
€133,756 |
|
Inspector Grade I |
€87,510 |
€9,976 |
€15,000 |
€112,486 |
|
Inspector Grade II |
€76,202 |
€8,687 |
€15,000 |
€99,889 |
|
Inspector Grade III |
€40,374 |
€4,603 |
€15,000 |
€59,977 |
|
Assistant Principal |
€83,113 |
€9,475 |
€15,000 |
€107,588 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
€60,029 |
€6,843 |
€15,000 |
€81,872 |
|
Executive Officer |
€38,803 |
€4,424 |
€15,000 |
€58,227 |
|
Clerical Officer |
€31,921 |
€3,639 |
€15,000 |
€50,560 |
The estimated annual cost of filling these vacancies is based on the following assumptions:
Figures based on starting point of the relevant grade for all positions.
Provision included for Employer PRSI calculated at 11.4%
Recruitment and onboarding cost of €15k for positions based on batch recruitment.
394. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the business grants which are available to gym owners who wish to expand their businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45311/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the first instance I recommend that any small business owner should explore the National Enterprise Hub (NEH), which helps businesses navigate and access a wide range of government supports available from 32 different Government bodies. The NEH was established as a signposting service to improve access to supports and reduce friction for business owners.
The NEH is open to all businesses, regardless of sector, and gyms and fitness facilities can access a wide range of supports depending on their circumstances. These supports can be explored through the NEH portal (www.neh.gov.ie) or by contacting NEH advisors directly via phone or live chat.
I would also point small business owners in Kerry towards the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) in Tralee. The LEO business advisors provide information and referrals to other relevant bodies, such as, Revenue, Micro Finance Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, LEADER, and Enterprise Ireland, under agreed protocols.
The LEOs offer direct grant assistance to small businesses that are specifically designed for growth or exporting and are aimed at those in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors. It should be noted that these grants cannot be provided to businesses in areas such as personal services, local retail, or local professional services.
LEOs provide consultancy and grants to small businesses of all sectors, in the areas of Green, Digital and Lean. These grants are focused on providing capital to assist in implementation of recommendations to digitalise or decarbonise a business. These grants are designed to enhance the productivity and improve the competitiveness of small businesses particularly in the areas of LEAN, Green, and Digital.
Furthermore, the LEOs offer a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes that are tailored to meet specific business requirements. LEO Mentors are well versed in the wide range of supports that may be available to business owners and provide crucial insights into the business development journey.
Mentors can also assist businesses owners with applications to Micro-finance Ireland (MFI), which is a not-for-profit lender that offers small business loans for commercially viable proposals. MFI can assist with government backed loans of up to €50,000 that can be used to help fund start-up costs, working capital or business expansion. By applying through their Local Enterprise Office, clients can avail of a 1% reduction in the interest rate charged. These loans are available to any business (Sole Trader, Partnership or Limited Company) with less than 10 employees subject to certain eligibility criteria.
395. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he has an any way to identify which Parliamentary Questions are AI generated; and the amount it costs, on average, to answer a Parliamentary Question. [45368/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department does not have a process or mechanism to identify Parliamentary Questions which may have been generated using AI.
It is not possible to provide a reliable estimate of the average cost of answering a Parliamentary Question. The time and resources required vary significantly depending on the complexity of the question, the availability and format of the information requested, and whether input is required from multiple officials, divisions, or external agencies. Given this variability, an average cost would not accurately reflect the work involved.
396. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 45 of 22 October 2025, to detail the formal reviews, analyses or assessments that have been undertaken by his Department regarding the €600 statutory redundancy weekly earnings cap since it was last amended in 2005; the dates and conclusions of any such reviews; whether there are any recommendation to increase the cap made by officials to successive Ministers during that period; and the way in which his Department justifies the continued retention of a 2005 earnings cap despite the substantial increase in average earnings and cumulative inflation over the intervening 20 years. [45392/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Redundancy Payments Act 1967, as amended, provides for a minimum statutory redundancy payment to eligible employees who are made redundant. An eligible employee is entitled to two weeks' pay for every year of service plus one additional week's pay, with weekly pay capped at €600 per week. The €600 per week salary ceiling has applied since 2005.
Section 4 of Redundancy Payments Act 1979 Act gives the Minister the power to vary the salary ceiling by Regulation and provides that, when setting the salary ceiling for redundancy payments, the Minister must take into account any changes in the average earnings of workers in the transportable goods industries as recorded by the Central Statistics Office. Any regulations are subject to the consent of the Minister for Finance.
The Government is committed to promoting positive working conditions in Ireland. In recent years, Government have introduced a range of measures to assist workers including increases to the National Minimum wage, statutory sick pay, the right to request remote working and an additional public holiday.
There are no immediate plans to increase the salary ceiling for redundancy payments at present. Both Minister Burke and I have kept this matter under regular review.
A range of factors must be carefully balanced in any consideration of an increase to the €600 ceiling. These include the rights of employees to reasonable redundancy payments. However, it is also important to maintain a regulatory environment that allows businesses to remain viable, and, indeed, to thrive. Consultation with other Government Departments, employer and employee representative groups and other relevant stakeholders would also be required.
It is important, in my role as Minister, to have due regard to the overall balance between supporting workers and maintaining a sustainable businesses environment.
397. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if consultation has taken place with a business operating outside of Dublin (details supplied) regarding collective redundancy; if his attention has been drawn to potential redundancy and the number of jobs at risk at this business; the State supports available to employees who become redundant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45465/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI received correspondence from the company referenced regarding proposed redundancies on 1 May 2026. It appears, based on the information provided by the company, that the number of potential redundancies involved did not meet the legal threshold of a collective redundancy, within the meaning of the Protection of Employment Act 1977.
The Redundancy Payments Act 1967, as amended, requires employers to pay a statutory redundancy payment to eligible employees who are being made redundant and have more than 2 years’ service.
Where redundancies occur which fall below collective redundancy thresholds, employers are still legally obliged to conduct the redundancy process fairly and to use reasonable selection criteria in selecting employees for redundancy. In accordance with the principles of fair procedures and natural justice, any such process should normally include a consultation with potentially affected employees.
The Intreo service of the Department of Social Protection provides supports to all workers who face job losses. This service can assist in relation to income and employment supports where needed, including helping with appropriate training and development opportunities.
IDA Ireland has established internal processes for managing potential and actual job loss situations with its client companies. This involves engagement with site leadership of the company to explore options to avoid or minimise any job losses and to assist affected employees with a transition period from the company.
IDA Ireland is also fully respectful of the consultation process that may be underway by any company and its employees or representatives following any announcement or proposed announcements.
IDA Ireland is available to further engage with client companies should this be requested during this process.
398. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the timeframe for the purchase of a site for an advance factory; the projected timeframe for the building in Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45596/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraBalanced regional development is a key focus of the work of my Department and our Enterprise Development agencies. In this regard, IDA Ireland is continuing its strong commitment to promoting FDI in regional locations as part of its 2025-29 strategy, Adapt Intelligently, and is targeting 550, or 55% of FDI projects outside Dublin over the strategy's lifetime. Furthermore, the IDA is positioning the Midlands Region - including Longford - as a competitive destination for global investment and IDA is targeting 40 of these 550 investments to the Midlands Region.
The availability of suitable property and strategic sites is a critical component of the regional value proposition and can be a key differentiator in investment decisions from both new and existing clients as well as clients of Enterprise Ireland and the LEOs. The IDA Regional Property Programme supports the provision of land, buildings and essential infrastructure in regional locations and IDA is investing significantly in the development of Advance Building Solutions (ABS) in the regions to attract additional FDI investment.
The provision of property solutions is a key element of IDA’s marketing of Longford and the Midlands Region and IDA has committed to build an ABS in Longford during its current strategy.
While the site selection process remains commercially sensitive pending completion of any land acquisition, IDA Ireland continues to engage with Longford County Council, wider stakeholders and the private sector to identify a suitable site aligned with investor needs for the proposed Advance Building Solution (ABS). I understand a meeting was held in Longford in recent months to discuss progress to date with public representatives and the IDA.
IDA also continues to work with regional stakeholders and the private sector on opportunities to add to the supply of competitive property solutions in regional locations.
There are 51 IDA client companies in the Midlands Region comprised of counties Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath, employing 7,501 people. The FDI performance in the region has been consistent over the past five years with employment among IDA clients increasing by 16%. The Midlands has a significant ecosystem of well-established companies across Life Sciences, Engineering, International Financial Services, Content, Consumer & Business Services and Technology.
1,572 people are employed in 8 IDA client companies in County Longford. Of course, my Department and our Enterprise Development Agencies also support Irish-based enterprise development in the regions including through Enterprise Ireland, the LEOs and our Tourism investment supports. There are an additional 2,581 people employed in Enterprise Ireland supported companies in Longford.
I can assure the Deputy that I remain engaged with the IDA on developments with this site.
399. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the way his Department is working to promote trade and investment opportunities that could benefit businesses and exporters in Galway East; if any targeted initiatives are planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38311/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, through Enterprise Ireland (EI), supports Irish companies to grow their business and secure new opportunities across the globe.
As an open and globally connected economy, Ireland is deeply integrated into international supply chains. Enterprise Ireland is supporting the Government’s Action Plan on Market Diversification through targeted financial supports, client advisory services and an expanded international footprint, helping Irish companies to broaden their export base and access high-growth overseas markets as part of a long-term, strategic approach to international growth.
As part of this approach, Enterprise Ireland introduced two enhanced export development grants in 2025. The Market Research Grant provides up to €35,000 to support in-depth market research and informed strategic decision-making, while the New Markets Validation Grant, offering up to €150,000, enables companies to validate entry into one or two priority new markets and de-risk international expansion. Between August 2025 and April 2026, 27 Market Research Grant applications were approved with a further 38 applications currently going through the approval process.
Over the same period, 49 New Markets Validation Grant applications were approved, and there is a pipeline of 72 additional applications currently progressing through assessment. These supports are delivered through Enterprise Ireland’s Client Advisor network and demonstrate strong and sustained levels of client engagement with market diversification activity.
Market diversification is further supported through Enterprise Ireland’s global network of 42 international offices, which provide on-the-ground assistance and access to new customers and ecosystems. Recent developments include the opening of offices in Atlanta, supporting FinTech and high-growth technology sectors; Glasgow, which focuses on offshore wind, energy, infrastructure and digital technologies; and Zurich, which provides access to advanced life sciences markets, particularly in MedTech and pharmaceuticals.
Enterprise Ireland is also advancing a whole-of-Government approach overseas through the expansion of the Ireland House model, co-locating with other State agencies to maximise impact for clients. Ongoing one-to-one engagement with client companies, informed by overseas market intelligence and sectoral expertise, remains central to Enterprise Ireland’s strategy to build resilience and support sustainable export growth across a wider range of international markets.
These wide-ranging supports can deliver tangible benefits for businesses in Galway East by enabling locally based enterprises to undertake detailed market research and confidently enter new international markets, helping to diversify revenue streams, reduce reliance on existing markets, and support sustainable job creation and business growth in the region.
400. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will engage with Fáilte Ireland, Kerry County Council and relevant tourism stakeholders regarding the potential development of a state-of-the-art virtual tourism simulator experience in County Kerry; if his Department will examine the feasibility of supporting such an innovative attraction (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45704/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFáilte Ireland is Ireland's national tourism development agency, and works in partnership with Government, State agencies, Local Authorities, representative groups and industry to develop tourism across Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland has developed a number of regional tourism development strategies, such as the Wild Atlantic Way and then works collaboratively with local stakeholders to create Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs).
Fáilte Ireland has collaborated extensively with Kerry County Council on the development of multiple DEDPs and Visitor experience development plans across Kerry, details of which are available here: www.failteireland.ie/Regional-experience-brands/Wild-Atlantic-Way/Wild-Atlantic-Way-experience-development.aspx
Fáilte Ireland has confirmed that it is not aware of the specific project referenced by the Deputy, but would be willing to engage with the promoter once details of the project are provided. Fáilte Ireland may be contacted in relation to this via oireachtas@failteireland.ie.
401. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of WTE digital marketing specialists employed by Enterprise Ireland as of 10 June 2026, in tabular form. [45745/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnterprise Ireland does not maintain a job title or classification explicitly designated as “Digital Marketing Specialist”.
Digital marketing functions are carried out as part of broader responsibilities within the organisation’s Marketing, Communications and related business units, and are embedded across a range of roles rather than assigned to a dedicated cohort of staff. Given the integrated nature of digital marketing across these roles, it is not possible to provide a precise number of staff assigned to digital marketing.
402. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will provide a full schedule of costs incurred in respect of the report on the value of data centres to Ireland by a company (details supplied). [45752/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department issued a request for tender on the 27th of February 2025 in relation to a study on the value of data centres to Ireland.
Responses to the tender were evaluated under a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) process, and the contract was awarded to KPMG on that basis.
The table below sets out all costs incurred in relation to the KPMG Independent Report on the Value of Data Centres to Ireland.
|
Date |
Milestone associated with cost |
Cost* |
|
April 2025 |
commissioning of contract |
€24,984.50 |
|
October 2025 |
presentation of interim research and findings |
€34,978.30 |
|
October 2025 |
company survey |
€5,000 |
|
April 2026 |
completion of contract |
€39,975.20 |
|
Overall Total |
- |
€104,938 |
*Cost values provided are exclusive of VAT.
403. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if plans have been made to provide assistance to music festivals affected by the liquidation of a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45804/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the reported liquidation of Tickets.ie. The focus now is on ensuring that affected consumers and creditors are aware of the steps they can take and the options available to them based on their rights where relevant under consumer protection and company law.
The State’s liquidation process is a well-established mechanism for the winding up of companies on both a voluntary and compulsory basis, and can take the form of either a court-ordered insolvent liquidation or a voluntary solvent or insolvent liquidation.
Any appointed liquidator is independent in their role and the exercise of their duties. They have a statutory role to identify, take possession of and redistribute the assets to the creditors. To do so, the liquidator must realise the value of the assets for the benefit of the insolvency estate. The Government cannot intervene in this process.
Consumers who have purchased tickets for events via Tickets.ie can engage with the event organiser to seek clarity on the status of their purchase. Creditors such as businesses who are owed debts by the company should engage with the appointed liquidator. Further information is expected to be made available through the appointed liquidator and relevant consumer information channels.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory body with responsibility for promoting compliance with, and enforcing, competition and consumer law in Ireland. The CCPC is independent in the performance of its statutory functions. The CCPC does not have a role in insolvency or liquidation processes, both of which fall outside its statutory remit.
The CCPC does have a role in providing information and guidance to consumers on their rights. In this regard, CCPC has published advice on its website for those affected by company closures and liquidations, including practical steps that may be taken. Further assistance can be obtained through contacting the CCPC’s national consumer helpline at ask@ccpc.ie or on 01 402 5555.
404. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department has analysed the employment impact of private equity acquisitions of IDA-supported technology companies here; if a pattern of post-acquisition redundancies has been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45854/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra405. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the conditions the IDA Ireland attaches to its client relationships regarding the protection of employment levels following a change of ownership, particularly in cases involving private equity acquisition; if these conditions are enforceable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45855/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra406. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if his Department plans to engage proactively with a company (details supplied) given the documented pattern of post-acquisition employment restructuring at other Irish technology operations owned by the same firm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45856/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra407. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if the specific upskilling and employment support measures announced for workers affected by a company’s (details supplied) redundancies will be made available on an equal basis to all workers made redundant from the technology sector, regardless of their former employer's size or public profile; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45857/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 404, 405, 406 and 407 together.
I propose answering questions 404, 405, 406 and 407 together.
IDA Ireland continually monitors key trends across the existing Multinational Technology Sector. As a dynamic global business sector, these trends are constantly evolving given the pace of technological change. It is not unusual for Private Equity firms to invest in or fully acquire technology companies.
IDA Ireland remains appraised of any development across the existing Technology base where there is a change in ownership at corporate either through VC or other.
It is not unusual for companies to review existing operations following any changes to corporate ownership, and in some instances, this can result in redundancies.
This is not a new trend, but one that IDA Ireland is very familiar with.
With regard to your question on IDA Ireland’s client relationships, in this context, “client relationships” has been interpreted as the contractual arrangements between IDA Ireland and its client companies in respect of grant assistance towards employment/capital investments and research, development, and innovation projects.
These IDA grant agreements contain provisions requiring the written consent of IDA where there is a change in the ultimate controlling interest or ownership of the client company. Where such circumstances arise, IDA assesses the proposed transaction, including any potential implications for the company’s ongoing commitments and the State’s investment, before determining the appropriate course of action. As part of this process, a submission will be prepared for consideration by the relevant IDA committee setting out the material facts, due diligence undertaken and any recommended conditions or actions.
The enforceability of any conditions attached by IDA depends on the terms of the relevant contractual arrangements. Where a company fails to comply with applicable contractual provisions, including change of control provisions, IDA may exercise the remedies available to it under the relevant agreement, which include cancellation of unpaid grant balances and/or recovery of grant funding already paid.
Regarding your question on support measures, IDA Ireland actively engages with all sectors affected by redundancies in its client companies, including meetings with leadership teams on a regular basis.
In addition, IDA regional teams’ partner with local agencies, to support impacted employees. There is an established process of coordinated engagement by support agencies at a local level to provide supports to employees in consultation with the company.
The types of supports/ initiatives provided by local agencies includes some of the following:
• Outplacement employment support services and potential training opportunities may be provided/facilitated by the company and/or other providers (ETBs/Skillnet, etc.) to support impacted employees.
• Provision of a detailed skills profile for the employees on the site, which with agreement can be shared with other potential site leaders that may be recruiting.
• IDA provides on a local level introduction to the Department of Social Protection and Solas on social welfare services and employment support services to support impacted employees’ transition to new employment opportunities.
The companies you mention in question 45856/26 are not IDA client companies. If employees require information on their employment rights, the Workplace Relations Commission’s Customer Service and Information Unit can provide further information in relation to employment rights and obligations and can be contacted at www.workplacerelations.ie or by phone on 059-9178990 or Lo Call 0818 80 80 90.
