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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 14 together. The National Economic and Social Council advises me on strategic policy issues relating to sustainable economic, social and environmental development in Ireland.

NESC is currently working in six main areas. The council published a report on the Irish economy in April, Understanding the Irish Economy in a Time of Turbulence. It outlines the main forces causing turbulence for Ireland’s economy, notes the main features of our economic performance and highlights the continuing importance of three issues: fiscal sustainability and investment; actions to realise net zero; and good jobs and making work attractive.

The second area NESC is working on is climate action, just transition and agriculture. This work is exploring in practical terms how climate targets and the transition they entail for Irish agriculture can be achieved in a manner that encompasses social equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability and economic wellbeing. The report is being finalised and is expected to be published in June 2023.

NESC continues to engage with the shared island unit. A report on social enterprise was discussed at the March NESC meeting. This report will include an overview of the state of social enterprise in Ireland and Northern Ireland on a shared island basis. It is expected the report will be submitted to the Government in the coming weeks.

Other areas NESC is working on include wellbeing and inequality, good jobs, which I mentioned, and natural capital accounting.

See this speech in context