Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 to 15, inclusive, together.

The National Economic and Social Council, NESC, advises me on strategic policy issues relating to sustainable economic, social and environmental development in Ireland. NESC is currently working in four main areas. Throughout 2023, NESC engaged in a programme of activities to mark its establishment in 1973.

This is an opportunity to look forward and to consider how the council can continue to find solutions to complex and challenging economic, social and environmental issues. The council will publish a book,NESC@50: Ireland at a Pivotal Moment, to mark the anniversary. The book will capture the voices and ideas of more than 40 people who participated in a major conference at Dublin Castle in November 2023. It is expected that the book will be published in early autumn.

The second area of focus is what NESC describes as "better work". The programme for Government outlines the need for a concerted policy focus on increasing the number of quality and sustainable jobs in the labour market, and the Government has introduced a series of measures designed to improve employees’ terms and conditions. The council’s work in this area focuses on evidence of the benefits for employees, employers, the wider economy more generally and social cohesion. It also examines potential cost implications for enterprises in the private sector and for our public services. It is expected that the report will be published in quarter 3 of this year.

The third area being worked on is housing. NESC is currently examining options that will help better realise affordable, integrated, and sustainable residential development. This includes considering emerging systems thinking within housing research, as well as a particular focus on the practicality of active land management and the advantages and challenges associated with modern methods of construction. It is expected that NESC will publish this work also in quarter 3 of this year.

The final area NESC is working on is energy, just transition and shared island. In the Government, we are working hard to ensure that Ireland captures the full potential associated with cleaner energy. Work by NESC will support us by considering the changes needed to eliminate fossil fuel use from Ireland and to meet our climate objectives. It will examine economic, trade, and enterprise opportunities and challenges associated with large-scale investment in clean energy infrastructure and what the transition means for households and communities, including the impact on energy poverty. It will help to inform and shape Ireland’s overall strategy and narrative for the transformation of the whole energy system on the island of Ireland. Work on this programme will be ongoing throughout the rest of 2024.

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