Written Answers Nos. 199-221
200. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether he will commission an independent review of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme arrangements for uniformed services with fast-accrual pension terms, including disparities with pre-2013 arrangements and the income gap before State Pension age; and if not, the reasons for this decision. [66449/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Single Public Service Pension Scheme is a statutory Public Service Career-Average Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. It was established under the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012.
The provisions of the Single Scheme are clearly set out in law. All new-entrant public servants hired after 1 January 2013 are members of the Single Scheme. This includes uniformed members in An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, full-time Firefighters and Prison Officers.
The introduction of the Single Scheme is central to ensuring the long term sustainability of public service pensions, particularly in the context of improved life expectancy and rising public service employee numbers. The most recent valuation of the State’s Accrued Liability in respect of public service retirement benefits calculates the overall liability to be €175.7bn, which is payable over the next 70 years or so. The annual pension bill for the public service is currently at €5.3bn; this is projected to increase to a peak of €9.8bn in 2055.
Despite the broader trend in the private sector towards closing defined benefit schemes, the Single Scheme remains a defined benefit pension arrangement, albeit based on career average remuneration.
Uniformed members - Firefighters, Prison Officers, Gardaí and the Defence Forces - have enhanced benefits that other Single Scheme members do not have. These members accrue benefits at a faster rate due to their earlier Mandatory Retirement Age.
In 2024, in recognition of individuals seeking to work longer, Government enacted legislation to permit Uniformed staff to remain in service until age 62, should they wish to. This move allows members to build-up a higher pension than previously, increasing the final value of their Single Scheme pension. On retirement, subject to having reached their Normal Retirement Age, members receive their Single Scheme pension and lump sum immediately. Any further changes to Mandatory Retirement Ages for Uniformed staff are matters, in the first instance, for relevant line departments and it is my and my Department's view that this is the more appropriate means of addressing retirement issues for Uniformed staff.
There are no plans at this time to commission a review of the Single Scheme, including the Fast Accrual elements. Occupational Supplementary Pensions (OSPs) are not a feature of the Single Scheme and were not envisaged to be.
201. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether he will consider a pension enhancement or accrual multiplier for Garda members covered by the single public service pension scheme to recognise long service and promotion, particularly progression into supervisory and management roles later in their careers, and support retention [66448/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Single Public Service Pension Scheme is a statutory Public Service Career-Average Defined Benefit Pension Scheme. It was established under the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012.
The provisions of the Single Scheme are clearly set out in law. All new-entrant public servants hired after 1 January 2013 are members of the Single Scheme. This includes uniformed members in An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, full-time Firefighters and Prison Officers.
The introduction of the Single Scheme is central to ensuring the long term sustainability of public service pensions, particularly in the context of improved life expectancy and rising public service employee numbers. The most recent valuation of the State’s Accrued Liability in respect of public service retirement benefits calculates the overall liability to be €175.7bn, which is payable over the next 70 years or so. The annual pension bill for the public service is currently at €5.3bn; this is projected to increase to a peak of €9.8bn in 2055.
Despite the broader trend in the private sector towards closing defined benefit schemes, the Single Scheme remains a defined benefit pension arrangement, albeit based on career average remuneration.
Uniformed members - Firefighters, Prison Officers, Gardaí and the Defence Forces - have enhanced benefits that other Single Scheme members do not have. These members accrue benefits at a faster rate due to their earlier Mandatory Retirement Age.
In 2024, in recognition of individuals seeking to work longer, Government enacted legislation to permit Uniformed staff to remain in service until age 62, should they wish to. This move allows members to build-up a higher pension than previously, increasing the final value of their Single Scheme pension. On retirement, subject to having reached their Normal Retirement Age, members receive their Single Scheme pension and lump sum immediately. Any further changes to Mandatory Retirement Ages for Uniformed staff are matters, in the first instance, for relevant line departments.
There are no plans at this time to introduce further pension enhancements for members of An Garda Síochána or any other Single Scheme members. As an individual receives increases in pensionable remuneration due to increments or promotion, this will be reflected in their pension and lump sum accrual due to the career average nature of the Single scheme.
Issues of retention are a matter, in the first instance, for relevant line departments.
202. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the estimated annual and long-term cost, broken down by service, of extending the Occupational Supplementary Pension to existing members of An Garda Síochána, the Prison Service, Fire Service and Defence Forces covered by the single public service pension scheme who must retire before State Pension age. [66446/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Single Public Service Pension Scheme is a statutory Public Service, Career-Average, Defined Benefit pension scheme. It was established under the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012.
The provisions of the Single Scheme are clearly set out in law. All new-entrant pensionable public servants hired after 1 January 2013 are members of the Single Scheme. This includes uniformed members in An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, full-time Firefighters and Prison Officers.
An Occupational Supplementary Pension (OSP) is not a feature of the Single Scheme, nor was it intended to be. As no policy consideration has been given to its introduction, it is not possible to provide a cost estimate, either for Uniformed Fast Accrual members as a whole or further broken down by Uniformed service.
In the pre-existing public service pension schemes, subject to the terms and eligibility, an OSP may be payable to a retired public servant in receipt of an integrated pension. The OSP bridges the difference between the combined value of the actual occupational pension payable and any social insurance benefits in payment; and the value of an occupational pension had the pension not been subject to integration. The calculation is a function of the structure of pre-existing public service pension schemes which, unlike the Single Scheme, is based on an individual’s final pensionable remuneration and years of service. The maximum amount payable is up to the value of the State Pension (Contributory).
Due to the fundamental design differences between the pre-existing public service pension schemes and the Single Scheme – final salary and reckonable service versus career average, respectively – it is not possible to apply the same approach in respect of OSP to members of the Single Scheme. There is no equivalent non-integrated pension scheme for Uniformed members from which comparisons can be drawn.
The introduction of the Single Scheme is central to ensuring the long term sustainability of public service pensions, particularly in the context of improved life expectancy and rising public service employee numbers. The most recent valuation of the State’s Accrued Liability in respect of public service retirement benefits calculates the overall liability to be €175.7bn, which is payable over the next 70 years or so. The annual pension bill for the public service is currently at €5.3bn; this is projected to increase to a peak of €9.8bn in 2055.
Despite the broader trend in the private sector towards closing defined benefit schemes, the Single Scheme remains a defined benefit pension arrangement, albeit based on career average remuneration.
Uniformed members - Firefighters, Prison Officers, Gardaí and the Defence Forces - have enhanced benefits that other Single Scheme members do not have. These members accrue benefits at a faster rate due to their earlier Mandatory Retirement Age.
In 2024, in recognition of individuals seeking to work longer, Government enacted legislation to permit Uniformed staff to remain in service until age 62, should they wish to. This move allows members to build-up a higher pension than previously, increasing the final value of their Single Scheme pension. On retirement, subject to having reached their Normal Retirement Age, members receive their Single Scheme pension and lump sum immediately. Any further changes to Mandatory Retirement Ages for Uniformed staff are matters, in the first instance, for relevant line departments.
203. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of WTE staff, by job title, currently working at the Blasket Centre, Kerry. [66563/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are 9 (nine) number of WTE staff, by job title, currently employed by the OPW, at the Blasket Centre, Kerry. This information is set out in tabular form below:
|
Management Unit |
Department |
Job Title |
WTE |
|
National Historic Properties |
Blasket Centre |
Guide |
7 |
|
National Historic Properties |
Blasket Centre |
Storekeeper Clerk Grade 1 |
1 |
|
National Historic Properties |
Blasket Centre |
Foreperson Grade 2 |
1 |
204. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishment works that the OPW carried out at Daniel O'Connell House in 2025 and to date in 2026; and if each refurbishment project is still ongoing or completed, in tabular form. [66562/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraDerrynane House and National Historic Park in County Kerry was the ancestral home and residence of Daniel O'Connell and the O'Connell family for generations. It is now managed by the Office of Public Works as a National Historic Property.
The works carried out at Derrynane in 2025 and to date in 2026, are as set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Nature of Works – Daniel O’Connell House |
Completed/Ongoing |
|
2025 |
New Display Case for O’Connell Death Mask |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Audio-visual Unit Repairs |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Painting Derrynane House |
Complete |
|
2025 |
New Water Refill Point |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Daniel O’Connell Heritage Trail |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Repair of Internal Access Roads |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Installation of Solar PV and Battery |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Miscellaneous Maintenance Items |
Complete |
|
2025 |
Window and Roof Refurbishment |
Complete |
|
2026 |
Supply/Install Black Out Blinds |
Complete |
|
2026 |
Painting of Internal Ceilings |
Complete |
|
2026 |
Connectivity / Electrical works |
Complete |
205. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if the Office of Public Works has plans to restore and reinstate the historic railings at Carlow Courthouse; the stage the project is currently at; whether funding has been allocated for the works and dates for the expected commencement and completion. [67025/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that the Office of Public Works (OPW) will deliver the project of restoring and reinstating the historic railings at Carlow Courthouse, following approval of the request for professional services received from the Court Service. The project will be funded entirely by the Courts Service.
The project is currently at tender preparation station and is subject to a Part 9 planning process.
Works are expected to commence in Q3 of 2027 with completion expected in Q3 of 2028.
The responsibility for ongoing maintenance and capital development at Carlow Courthouse will remain with the Courts Service.
206. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the amount that the OPW collected in rent fees from external restaurants/cafes within OPW Heritage Sites in 2025 and the first seven months of 2026, in tabular form. [67078/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works are collating the information requested and a reply will issue directly to the Deputy.
207. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the list of projects under the coast-to-coast capital investment scheme; the status of those projects; and the expected delivery time. [66312/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Shared Island Brand Collaboration Project, which aims to build stronger links between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, has progressed significantly this year. In February, the Taoiseach and I, together with Minister Archibald, announced the 13 successful projects under the Coast-to-Coast Capital Investment Scheme to support the development of high-quality, immersive visitor experiences across both jurisdictions.
Further details on the projects are set out below:
|
Project |
Location |
Current Status |
Expected Delivery |
|
Inishowen Maritime Museum |
Donegal |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
Oakfield Park |
Donegal |
Works ongoing |
Q1 2027 |
|
The Workhouse |
Donegal |
Works ongoing |
Q1 2027 |
|
Wild Ireland |
Donegal |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
Lough Gill Brewery |
Sligo |
Project Complete |
Complete |
|
The Model – Home of the Niland Collection |
Sligo |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
The Yeats Society |
Sligo |
Works ongoing |
Q1 2027 |
|
The Rose of Innisfree |
Leitrim |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
Giant’s Causeway Interpretation Transformation |
Antrim |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
Museum of Free Derry |
Derry |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
The Gobbins Visitor Experience |
Antrim |
Works ongoing |
Q4 2026 |
|
Derry Girls Experience |
Derry |
Works ongoing |
Q1 2027 |
|
The Courthouse, Bushmills |
Antrim |
Works ongoing |
Q2 2027 |
208. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will report on his proposals to cultivate cross-border tourism. [66311/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Shared Island Brand Collaboration Project, which aims to build stronger links between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route, has progressed significantly this year. In February, the Taoiseach and I, together with Minister Archibald, announced the 13 successful projects under the Coast-to-Coast Capital Investment Scheme. These projects support the development of high-quality, immersive visitor experiences across both jurisdictions.
The inaugural Shared Island tourism workshop took place in the Everglades Hotel in Derry-Londonderry on 9th September, where tourism businesses from the Causeway Coastal Route and the northern section of the Wild Atlantic Way had a unique opportunity to showcase the best of this part of our island to top overseas travel buyers. The event brought together around 50 overseas tour operators from eight key tourism markets with 110 tourism SMEs from Sligo, Leitrim, Donegal and the Causeway Coastal Route, from Hazelbank Park to Derry-Londonderry.
The workshop was the first initiative of its kind under the Shared Island framework; it aimed to sustainably grow overseas visitor numbers, by highlighting the connectivity of the two iconic routes, encouraging visitors to stay longer here, thereby increasing the economic benefits of tourism. Over 1,500 commercial meetings took place during the workshop, with the local tourism businesses – from premium hotels, food experiences and whiskey distilleries to activity providers and hidden gems of heritage – connecting with the overseas tour operators to negotiate and exchange vital contracts for 2027 and beyond, and ultimately to bring valuable tourists to this part of our island. During their time here, the overseas buyers also participated in networking sessions and familiarisation trips along the northern section of the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal Route.
In February 2025, the next phase of the Shared Island Initiative was launched, with up to €23 million allocated to the Shared Destinations Programme targeting border regions. This initiative involves Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland working collaboratively with local authorities to develop sustainable tourism infrastructure in areas such as Carlingford Lough, the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark and Sliabh Beagh. It also includes an International Marketing Programme designed to maximise economic benefits for each region. The projects under this programme have now commenced, with the project teams established and initial work underway.
Through the All-Island Strategic Tourism Group, established under the North South Ministerial Council, the Department and tourism agencies will continue to cooperate closely with counterparts in Northern Ireland. This collaboration will focus on advancing key areas of North-South coordination, unlocking the full tourism potential of the island, and delivering lasting benefits for both visitors and local communities.
In addition, Fáilte Ireland has established localised five-year Destination Experience Development Plans (DEDPs), which bring public and private sector organisations together to prioritise tourism development projects and optimise their chance for success. Their goal is to unlock tourism potential while ensuring development enhances visitor experience, supports the local economy, and protects the environment and culture through collaboration and best practice. This includes the Border DEDP which features counties Cavan and Leitrim, Waterways Ireland, local development companies, tourism businesses, and communities.
209. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of bed nights available in each county, in tabular form. [66309/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe current data landscape in relation to tourism accommodation is comprehensive but evolving. Fáilte Ireland maintains statutory accommodation registers under the Tourist Traffic Acts and through the National Quality Assurance Framework (NQAF), providing an established evidence base for the sector.
To further strengthen the tourist accommodation data framework this year, a statutory register for all Short-Term Letting (STL) accommodation will be introduced in December following the introduction of necessary legislation. The introduction of the register will provide, for the first time, a comprehensive and authoritative picture of the STL market and the number of properties operating in the sector. Once operational, the register will serve as the primary source of STL data helping to identify accommodation capacity trends and supporting more informed decision making to address emerging pressures in key tourism regions.
To support the sustainable growth of the tourist accommodation sector, Fáilte Ireland has developed a Capacity and Pipeline Monitor to track movement in tourism accommodation capacity. This strategic tool tracks existing capacity and monitors development projects as they progress through the planning, construction and delivery stages. The monitor supports early identification of potential supply pressures, provides insight into regional and sectoral trends, and supports evidence-based decision-making by policymakers and industry stakeholders. Findings are published twice yearly through Fáilte Ireland’s Tourist Accommodation Outlook report, helping to inform policy responses and investment decisions aimed at ensuring sufficient accommodation capacity to meet future tourism demand.
The forthcoming Tourist Accommodation Strategy, a key commitment under A New Era for Irish Tourism, will provide a clear framework to ensure that Ireland continues to offer a competitive, high-quality tourism experience. This Strategy will establish a clear framework to strengthen, diversify, and expand Ireland’s accommodation offering. As part of the preparation of the Strategy, I launched a public consultation in April that invited views from members of the public, stakeholders, and all interested parties. My officials are currently finalising two reports providing a comprehensive overview of the views expressed during the consultation process and which will be published on my Department’s website shortly. The insights gathered in these reports will contribute to the evidence base underpinning the development of the Tourist Accommodation Strategy to help ensure Ireland has sufficient, diverse and dispersed, high-quality accommodation to best meet future demand.
Insights drawn from the capacity and pipeline monitor, the existing registers, and the new STL register will collectively inform the Strategy and guide long-term accommodation planning. This integrated, data-driven approach will ensure that Ireland’s tourism infrastructure evolves in line with changing consumer preferences and global travel trends.
Fáilte Ireland currently reports 229,127 tourism bedspaces recorded across its registers, reflecting the scale of the sector and providing a strong foundation for future strategic development.
The table below sets out the number of units and bedplaces available in each county.
|
County |
Total No. of Units / Pitches |
Bedplaces |
|
Co. Carlow |
630 |
1762 |
|
Co. Cavan |
1107 |
2854 |
|
Co. Clare |
3289 |
9157 |
|
Co. Cork |
7430 |
20127 |
|
Co. Donegal |
4173 |
11635 |
|
Co. Dublin |
29182 |
65001 |
|
Co. Galway |
7078 |
17958 |
|
Co. Kerry |
8141 |
22750 |
|
Co. Kildare |
1690 |
4100 |
|
Co. Kilkenny |
1580 |
4292 |
|
Co. Laois |
579 |
1671 |
|
Co. Leitrim |
632 |
2466 |
|
Co. Limerick |
2557 |
6195 |
|
Co. Longford |
659 |
2946 |
|
Co. Louth |
1447 |
3245 |
|
Co. Mayo |
3557 |
9643 |
|
Co. Meath |
1619 |
4641 |
|
Co. Monaghan |
342 |
905 |
|
Co. Offaly |
440 |
1314 |
|
Co. Roscommon |
474 |
1378 |
|
Co. Sligo |
1790 |
4923 |
|
Co. Tipperary |
1310 |
3825 |
|
Co. Waterford |
2494 |
7896 |
|
Co. Westmeath |
1268 |
3326 |
|
Co. Wexford |
2422 |
7335 |
|
Co. Wicklow |
2729 |
7782 |
|
Total |
88619 |
229127 |
The figure excludes campuses and marinas to ensure uniformity in the reporting of statistics.
210. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to outline the work undertaken to promote all-island tourism in relation to major international sporting events which will be hosted in Ireland until 2030, by sporting project, in tabular form. [66304/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTourism Ireland is the organisation with responsibility for marketing the island of Ireland overseas as a compelling holiday and Business Events destination. Tourism Ireland is active in 15+ key markets across Great Britain, North America, Mainland Europe, Australia and nascent markets.
High profile sporting events e.g., The Open returning to Royal Portrush in the summer of 2025, the Ryder Cup taking place at Adare Manor in 2027 and the Aer Lingus College Football Classic series provide Tourism Ireland with a unique opportunity to highlight the island of Ireland as a wonderful holiday destination, as well as a top location for sporting events.
Below in tabular form are details of the major international sporting events until 2030 which Tourism Ireland will leverage for overseas tourism to the island of Ireland.
|
Sporting Project |
Date |
|
Annual Aer Lingus College Football Classic, Dublin |
August 2027, August 2028, (2029, 2030 TBC) |
|
Ryder Cup, Adare Manor |
Sept-27 |
|
Annual Irish Open (The K Club in 2027; future venues TBC) |
July 2027, September 2028, September 2029, September 2030 |
|
Friendship Four, Belfast (Ice Hockey) |
November 2027, November 2028, November 2029, November 2030 |
|
UEFA EURO 2028, Dublin ** |
June and July 2028 |
|
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Dublin |
June or July 2030 (exact dates TBC) |
** once the qualifying teams are known, Tourism Ireland will look at the opportunity and draw up a promotional plan.
211. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the dates on which the critical skills occupation list has been updated since 2023; the changes made in each instance; and the timeframe for the next review of the list. [66303/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) has been updated on four occasions since 2023 following reviews of the occupations lists for employment permits undertaken by my Department. The table below sets out the relevant statutory instruments, the roles added to the CSOL and the effective date:
|
Statutory Instrument |
Occupations added to the CSOL |
Effective date |
|
S.I. No. 213 of 2026, Employment Permits (Amendment) Regulations 2026 |
Agronomist, Construction Planner / Scheduler, Ophthalmic Optician, Intellectual Property Professionals, Geospatial Surveyor (including Land Surveyor and Geomatics Surveyor), Riggers (within the Games Industry) |
13th May 2026 |
|
S.I. No. 643, Employment Permits |
|
17th December 2025
|
|
(Amendment) (No. 5) Regulations 2025 |
Cardiac physiologist, Vascular |
|
|
technologists/physiologists, Gastro Intestinal |
|
|
|
technologists/physiologists, Respiratory physiologist, Optometrist |
17th December 2025 |
|
|
S.I. No. 64 of 2025, Employment Permits (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2025 |
Town Planning Officer |
10th March 2025 |
|
S.I. No. 680 of 2023, Employment Permits (Amendment (No. 3) Regulations 2023 |
Professional Forester, Resource modelling, Earth observation and data analyst, Meteorologist, Operational Forecaster, Chemical Engineer, Project Engineer, BIM Manager, Commercial Manager, BIM Coordinator/Technician, Estimator |
20th December 2023 |
The occupations lists are maintained under periodic review by my Department to ensure that the employment permits system remains responsive to labour market needs and identified skills shortages.
No date has yet been determined for the next review of the Critical Skills Occupations List. Reviews are undertaken on a periodic basis, and the next review will be announced on my Department's website. In the interim, stakeholders who would like to engage in the next public consultation on the occupations lists may register their interest by contacting Register.economicmigration@enterprise.gov.ie.
213. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to outline the importance of digital infrastructure, including data centres, to the Irish economy. [66520/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland's digital economy is a major driver of economic growth, productivity, exports, competitiveness, investment, employment and tax revenues.
Computer services exports for example exceeded €300 billion in 2025, accounting for approximately 61 per cent of all services exports and almost 40 per cent of Ireland's total exports. This highlights the importance of digital infrastructure in supporting national competitiveness and export performance as these exports depend on resilient telecommunications networks, international connectivity, subsea cables, cloud services and data centres that enable the storage, processing and transmission of digital information.
The Information and Communication services sector (which includes telecommunications, software and IT services, digital platforms and data services, and media activities) employed approximately 170,000 people at the beginning of 2026, representing around 6 per cent of total employment. The sector generated approximately €1.7 billion in VAT receipts in 2025, making it the third-largest contributing sector to internal VAT. It also contributed approximately €11.2 billion in Corporation Tax receipts in 2025, accounting for more than one fifth of all Corporation Tax receipts that year, highlighting its significant fiscal importance to Ireland's economy. This reflects Ireland's position as a leading European hub for technology and digital services, which is supported by the digital infrastructure that underpins these activities.
However, the importance of digital infrastructure extends far beyond the Information and Communication services sector. Businesses across the economy increasingly rely on high-quality digital connectivity, cloud computing and data processing capabilities to support day-to-day operations, innovation, productivity improvements and engagement with customers and suppliers. As digital technologies become more deeply embedded in business activity, access to reliable digital infrastructure is becoming a key determinant of competitiveness across a broad range of sectors. Digital infrastructure also underpins the delivery of public services across Government, supporting areas such as healthcare, education, social protection, taxation and public administration. It is a critical enabler of the Government's ambition to achieve full digitalisation of key public services by 2030, as set out in the Digital Public Services Plan 2030.
A recent study commissioned by my Department identified six sectors with the greatest dependency on data centres: ICT Services, Financial and Insurance Activities, Human Health and Social Work, Transportation and Storage, Wholesale and Retail Trade, and Professional Services. The research estimated that, in 2024, data centres located in Ireland enabled economic activity worth approximately €100 billion in gross value added across these sectors, supported around 875,000 jobs and an estimated €14.6 billion in annual employment-related tax revenues.
These findings highlight the role of data centres as enabling infrastructure supporting economic activity across a broad range of sectors - though recognising that data centres are one element of the broader digital infrastructure ecosystem that collectively enable the secure and efficient movement, storage and processing of data within Ireland and internationally.
The Government's digital and artificial intelligence strategy recognises digital infrastructure as a critical foundation for future economic growth and competitiveness. Robust digital infrastructure is increasingly important in enabling enterprises in Ireland to adopt artificial intelligence technologies and to develop, deploy and scale AI-enabled products, services and business processes.
The growing importance of artificial intelligence globally means that access to reliable digital infrastructure is increasingly becoming a key consideration for firms when making investment and location decisions. Maintaining and strengthening these foundations will help Ireland attract and retain high-value foreign direct investment while supporting the continued growth of internationally traded, technology-intensive and digitally enabled sectors of the economy.
The importance of digital infrastructure is also increasingly recognised at European level, as reflected in the proposed Cloud and AI Development Act. The proposal highlights the need for greater investment in digital infrastructure, including cloud and data centre capacity, to support the development and deployment of artificial intelligence and to strengthen Europe's competitiveness and technological resilience.
Taken together, these indicators demonstrate the central role that digital infrastructure plays in supporting Ireland's economy. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded across the economy, digital infrastructure will remain a critical enabler of enterprise adoption and innovation, supporting future productivity growth, competitiveness and economic prosperity in an increasingly digital and AI-enabled global economy.
214. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to outline Ireland's engagement with the European unified patents system; and his plans for a referendum to join the system. [66519/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe international Agreement on a Unified Patent Court (UPCA) was signed by twenty-five EU Member States during Ireland’s EU Presidency in 2013, with a view to establishing the Unified Patent Court (UPC). The UPC is an International court set up by participating EU Member States to deal with the infringement and validity of Unitary Patents.
Government has committed that a local division of the UPC will be established in Ireland if the State ratifies the Agreement on a Unified Patent Court (UPCA), under which the UPC is established. A successful Constitutional referendum will be required to allow for the transfer of jurisdictional powers from our Courts to the new international Court in cases of patent litigation. Meanwhile, Ireland attends both the Administrative and Budget Committees of the UPC in an observer capacity in order to be fully informed in the event of a successful referendum.
Ireland sees many benefits to the ratification of the UPC including increased competitiveness for the small and medium enterprise sector, cost benefits, support for innovative R&D, and enhancement of Ireland’s overall competitiveness in a rapidly- evolving global economy.
The previous Government reaffirmed its commitment to ratifying and participating in the UPC system and had scheduled a referendum for 7 June 2024, to coincide with the European Parliament elections. On 16th April 2024, it was decided to defer the date for the referendum to a future date in order to facilitate greater public discourse and more informed debate on the matter. The timing of the Referendum remains under review.
215. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he is satisfied that Ireland’s current regulatory and enforcement framework is adequately equipped to address the rapidly developing risks associated with artificial intelligence; the progress made in implementing and enforcing the EU Artificial Intelligence Act in Ireland; the bodies that will have responsibility for oversight and enforcement; the resources and expertise being provided to those bodies; whether he has identified regulatory gaps in areas including employment, financial services, professional services and consumer protection. [66490/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU AI Act establishes a harmonised, risk-based regulatory framework for AI systems developed, placed on the market or deployed in the European Union. Its objective is to protect health, safety and fundamental rights while supporting the development and uptake of trustworthy artificial intelligence. The Act entered into force in August 2024 and applies on a phased basis through to August 2028.
While the EU AI Act is directly applicable, Member States are required to establish national arrangements for its implementation, supervision and enforcement. Ireland has adopted a distributed model of regulation, which builds on the expertise and statutory functions of existing sectoral regulators, supported by a central coordinating authority.
The Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Act 2026, which commenced in July 2026, establishes the national structures required to implement and enforce the EU AI Act in Ireland. Together, the EU AI Act and the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Act 2026 provide a comprehensive framework for the oversight and enforcement of AI systems.
The AI Office of Ireland has been established as the central coordinating authority for implementation of the EU AI Act. The Office supports coordination across the regulatory system, promotes consistent application of the Act and serves as a national focal point for the safe and trustworthy development and use of AI. Budget 2026 provided €1.5 million in start-up funding to support its establishment.
Under Ireland's distributed regulatory model, responsibility for supervision and enforcement of the AI Act rests with designated national competent authorities in their respective sectors. This approach enables Ireland to leverage existing regulatory expertise and sectoral knowledge while strengthening capacity in line with the Act's phased implementation timetable. The AI Office will also maintain a central pool of technical, legal and regulatory expertise to support competent authorities. Further details on Ireland’s designated competent authorities for the regulation of AI can be found on the AI Office of Ireland’s website.
It is also important to note the significant role of the European Commission, which has responsibility for the supervision and enforcement of the AI Act with regards to General Purpose AI models and the use of AI in Very Large Online Platforms and Search Engines.
I am satisfied that Ireland's current regulatory framework provides a strong basis for addressing both current and emerging risks associated with artificial intelligence. Many AI-enabled products and services are already subject to sector-specific regulatory frameworks, with the EU AI Act introducing additional AI-specific requirements and safeguards. My Department will continue to work closely with the AI Office and competent authorities to monitor implementation of the Act, review the effectiveness of the framework and identify any future regulatory, resourcing or legislative measures that may be required.
216. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the reason for the lack of representation for the music or arts sector at the AI Advisory Council and AI Office despite the Government’s support for such representation (details supplied); if he will ensure such representation; and if he will acknowledge that the lack of a regulator responsible for the music, arts and creative sector has resulted in no national competent authority to maintain regulatory coherence and efficiency in compliance with copyright law and with whom the AI Office can work to protect these sectors. [66506/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe AI Advisory Council was established in January 2024 for a two-year term to provide independent expert advice to Government on artificial intelligence policy, with a specific focus on building public trust and promoting trustworthy, person centred AI. The Council's term has come to an end and its work has concluded, reflecting the continued development of Ireland’s artificial intelligence policy framework and the establishment of permanent advisory and governance structures. Following two public calls for expressions of interest, I am satisfied that the composition of the Council reflected a diverse range of expertise, experience and perspectives from across civil society.
Oifig IS na hÉireann (the AI Office of Ireland) was established on 31st July 2026 and is in its establishment phase. It is the national authority responsible for coordinating the implementation of the EU AI Act. As part of the work of the Office, it is engaging with stakeholders from a wide range of sectors with the objective of building strong working relationships with them. It continues to identify and engage groups of stakeholders, including those in the arts and cultural sector. The rapid development of AI presents opportunities and challenges, and maintaining open dialogue between the Office and stakeholders across Ireland is a key part of the establishment of an Office that supports the development of ethical, human centred AI.
On 31st July Minister Burke appointed the seven members of the Board of Oifig IS na hÉireann (the AI Office of Ireland). The Board members bring extensive expertise across public administration, regulation, technology, governance, law, academia, consumer protection and ethics and includes experience in bringing together standards organisations to foster a unified response to deepfake technology.
The EU AI Act contains provisions applying to providers of general-purpose AI that entered into force on 2 August 2025. Article 53 requires models made available in the EU to be compliant with EU copyright law, in particular Article 4(3) of the Copyright in the DSM Directive (the Text and Data Mining (TDM) exception). The General-Purpose AI Code of Practice developed under the AI Act helps industry comply with the legal obligations on copyright. Providers are also required to complete a ‘Transparency Template’ providing a high-level overview of data used to train models. The EU AI Office is responsible for enforcing these provisions of the AI Act.
From the 2 August 2026, Article 50 of the AI Act imposed mandatory transparency obligations on providers and deployers of AI systems, which have a number of applications, including for copyright. AI systems already on the market before then will have until 2 December 2026 to comply. Compliance with these rules will be enforced by both the national competent market surveillance authorities and the EU AI Office.
217. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if funding is available through his Department or Fáilte Ireland for the development of feasibility studies for tourism projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66494/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department leads on tourism policy, while Fáilte Ireland, as the National Tourism Development Authority, delivers tourism development and investment supports.
Fáilte Ireland provides a range of funding and non-financial supports to tourism businesses and destinations, with individual funding schemes opening at different times and each having its own objectives, eligibility conditions and eligible expenditure. The availability of support for preliminary work, including a feasibility study, therefore depends on the terms of the particular scheme. There is no standing, generally open Fáilte Ireland scheme dedicated solely to funding feasibility studies.
Project promoters should consult Fáilte Ireland at an early stage to establish whether their proposal aligns with the relevant regional tourism development strategy and whether any current or forthcoming programme may provide suitable assistance. Fáilte Ireland also offers research, guidance, mentoring and other business-development supports that can help promoters assess and refine a project proposal. Details of open funding opportunities and related supports are published by Fáilte Ireland and updated as schemes become available.
Furthermore, Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) operating through all 31 local authorities, provide business advice, mentoring, management development, and signposting to relevant Government supports. In addition, the National Enterprise Hub provides a single access point to information on more than 250 Government business supports delivered by 32 Departments and State agencies.
218. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether his Department has assessed the potential impact of the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence on regulated and professional sectors in Ireland, including legal, financial, insurance and other professional services; and whether further national safeguards, in addition to those provided under the EU AI Act, are being considered. [66491/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile my Department has not commissioned studies specifically examining the impact of AI adoption on regulated and professional sectors such as legal, financial, insurance and other professional services, it has undertaken and engaged with a broader programme of analysis on the implications of AI for the Irish economy. This work has primarily focused on enterprise, productivity and labour market impacts.
The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) insight paper ‘The Irish Labour Market and AI in 2026’ notes a rapid rate of AI spread across the economy with AI-related jobs growing at two to three times the rate of peer countries. AI skills are in high demand, supported by a strong talent pipeline. However, the research also shows that there is an uneven pace of adoption across enterprises and individuals.
Analysis from UCD through the recently published Working in Ireland Survey 2025 shows AI adoption among workers is substantial and above EU averages, but adoption varies significantly across education, occupation, gender, income and firm size.
Findings from a joint research programme between the Economic and Social Research Institute (ERSI) and my Department point to strong future demand for AI, with more firms intending to invest in AI than are currently using it.
This body of research highlights the significant opportunities associated with AI adoption. It also underscores the importance of investment in skills, workforce adaptation and responsible deployment to ensure that the benefits of AI are broadly shared across the economy.
My Department continues to engage with enterprise agencies and industry stakeholders to deepen our understanding of how AI is transforming business models and reshaping economic activity across the economy.
It is important to also acknowledge the risks AI can pose. Government is committed to implementing a strong regulatory framework which supports AI adoption, while ensuring its safe, ethical and responsible use.
The European Union has responded to the opportunities and risks presented by AI through the EU AI Act, which establishes a comprehensive legal framework governing the development, placing on the market and use of AI systems.
The Act introduces safeguards proportionate to the level of risk posed by an AI system, including prohibitions on certain harmful practices, requirements for high-risk AI systems, transparency obligations, and mechanisms for market surveillance and enforcement.
These protections apply across sectors where AI systems fall within the scope of the Act, including professional and regulated services. The Act is designed to ensure that AI can be used safely and responsibly while supporting innovation and economic growth.
In addition, existing sectoral legislation and regulatory frameworks continue to apply, and sectoral regulators remain responsible for oversight within their respective remits.
The current focus is on the effective implementation and enforcement of the EU AI Act, and there are no plans to introduce separate national AI-specific legislation beyond these measures.
Finally, a major milestone has been reached with the establishment of the AI Office of Ireland, which will be the central coordinating body for implementation of the EU AI Act. One of its key functions is to promote the safe adoption and deployment of AI in Ireland.
219. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of Critical Skills Employment Permits granted in each of the past five years and to date in 2026, by occupation, standard occupational classification (SOC) code and nationality; and the percentage of the total represented by each occupational category, in tabular form. [66693/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland operates a managed employment permits system designed to maximise the benefits of economic migration while minimising disruption to the Irish labour market. The system facilitates the recruitment of appropriately skilled non-EEA nationals to address identified skills and labour shortages and support enterprise development, while ensuring that opportunities for suitably qualified Irish and EEA workers are protected. Employment permits are granted in accordance with the Employment Permits Act 2024 and associated Regulations and are only issued where the relevant statutory criteria and legislative requirements are met.
The Critical Skills Employment Permit is intended to attract highly skilled workers in occupations experiencing skills shortages identified as strategically important to the economy.
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tables below. Table 1 provides the number of Critical Skills Employment Permits issued during the period 2021 to date in 2026, by Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code and occupation, together with the percentage share represented by each SOC code. Table 2 provides the corresponding breakdown by nationality.
220. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the reason there is no representation for music or arts at AI office despite government commitment to the Dáil motion in July this year and repeated requests from organisations (details supplied) for such representation. [66620/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraOifig IS na hÉireann (the AI Office of Ireland) was established on 31st July 2026 and is currently in its establishment phase. On 5th August Minister Peter Burke, T.D., appointed the seven members of the Board of Oifig IS na hÉireann (the AI Office of Ireland). These Board members bring extensive expertise across public administration, technology, governance, law, consumer protection and ethics and will inform the work of the AI office in the months and years ahead.
As part of its consultation strategy Oifig IS na hÉireann is actively engaging with stakeholders across Ireland and the EU to inform its priorities, challenges and opportunities. These engagements and its ongoing capacity building include analysing reports and developments to identify potential regulatory risks as more aspects of the EU AI Act comes into force over the next 2 years.
As part of the consultation work of the AI Office, engagement with groups from a wide range of sectors across Irish Society are ongoing, and this work continues to identify and engage with relevant stakeholders, including those in the arts and cultural sector. The rapid development of AI presents opportunities and challenges to these sectors, and maintaining open dialogue between the AI Office and stakeholders across Ireland is a key part of the work of an office that supports the development of ethical, human centred AI.
221. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment what steps are being taken to ensure that social enterprises have equal and consistent access to Local Enterprise Office grants, mentoring and business development supports in every local authority area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66777/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPolicy responsibility for Social Enterprises lies with the Department of Rural Community Development and the Gaeltacht. The Trading for Impact: National Social Enterprise Policy 2024 -2027 was launched by the Minister for Rural and Community Development on July 24, 2024. Actions 15 and 16 of the Policy refer to providing a consistent service to social enterprises and providing greater access to supports through Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs).
The Local Enterprise Offices play an extremely important role at local level, providing their services to small businesses and promoting entrepreneurship across all 31 Local Authority areas.
Enterprise Ireland LEO Operations & Client Excellence unit has been actively working for a number of years to improve awareness, understanding and consistency in how social enterprises are supported across the network. This has included dedicated training and awareness sessions for LEO staff, developed in collaboration with representatives of the social enterprise sector, social enterprise practitioners and enterprise consultants.
As with all small businesses, Social Enterprises are eligible for LEO supports such as training and mentoring supports, Lean for Micro, and Green for Business. These supports are open to all micro and small enterprises (1–50 employees) that meet the programme criteria, with eligibility is based on enterprise activity rather than company structure
Social Enterprises are also potentially eligible for the LEOs’ range of competitiveness and productivity supports, as well as core measure 1 supports, although these are primarily focused on manufacturing and internationally traded services . Here Social Enterprises are eligible for LEO assistance provided they operate on a commercial basis and meet the eligibility criteria of the scheme for which they wish to apply and may be eligible for supports such as the Grow Digital Voucher, the Energy Efficiency Grant, and Green for Business.
My Department, through both the LEO Policy Statement 2024-2030 and Enterprise Ireland’s strategy ‘Delivering for Ireland, Leading Globally’, recognise that social enterprises are a valuable part of our economy. The LEO Policy Statement emphasises a consistency of approach across the LEO network and a clear intention to show that LEO’s are there to provide advice and guidance on what supports are available to small businesses across all sectors.
