Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This question regards our competitiveness, which is a mixed bag. With regard to Ireland's competitiveness index, relative to ourselves, we have done significantly better since the start of the recession, with factor input costs decreasing. Compared globally, however, we are doing worse every year. The World Economic Forum, WEF, places us 27th this year, down from 22nd in 2007. While we are getting more competitive relative to ourselves, we are rapidly becoming less competitive relative to other countries. What is being done in this regard? Are there targets? Is the Minister satisfied with our position and trajectory?

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