Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I acknowledge what the Minister stated. What was worrying about the headlines put before us by the American Chamber of Commerce, particularly by Dr. Fraser Logue, was that 42% of those surveyed stated their parent company would not view Ireland favourably as a location for investment because of labour shortages and 73% stated they struggled to secure skilled labour.

I tabled this question to bring these matters to the attention of the Minister and show US companies have deep concerns about these issues. I acknowledge the Minister indicated a number of policy responses he will make. How does he intend to communicate more forcibly that message to the American Chamber of Commerce and the companies involved and ensure it, rather than the negative message from the survey, is received?

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