Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 to 22, inclusive, together.

The national risk assessment has been prepared since 2014 and provides an opportunity to identify and discuss significant risks which may arise for Ireland. A draft list of strategic risks for consideration as part of the 2023 national risk assessment was published for consultation on 7 December 2022. This provides an opportunity, as has been done in previous years, for the public, stakeholders and Oireachtas Members to contribute their views on the proposed strategic risks for 2023. The public consultation closed on 17 February. Work is now under way on considering the consultation responses and finalising the 2023 national risk assessment.

The draft list outlined 25 proposed risks. Many of the proposed risks had been identified in previous assessments. Some of them have evolved significantly, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, inflation and, of course, new economic risks. The experience of recent years has brought home the importance of work in the area of risk management and preparedness. By promoting an open and inclusive discussion on the major risks facing the country the national risk assessment plays an important role in this work. It is important to note that the national risk assessment is just one element of the overall system of preparedness planning for Ireland and is not intended to displace the detailed risk management and preparedness carried out by individual Departments and agencies.

See this speech in context