Mr. Ian Talbot:

To conclude, the committee will note that our submission is very comprehensive but we have only touched on some of the core points in this discussion. We make a range of recommendations to Government on how we can support and encourage a culture of entrepreneurship, how we can boost labour market participation, narrow the gender pay gap and support our workforce by tackling issues, such as housing shortages, climate change, skills gaps and investment. I want to stress that making strides towards decarbonising our energy supply is very important.

Ireland is in a strong economic position as we go into budget 2019 with risks ahead. It is an opportunity to prepare for those difficulties ahead, where careful planning and smart decisions will ensure our prosperity is sustainable, so that we are ready to seize all future opportunities and weather the threats. I thank the committee.