Ruairí Ó Murchú (Louth, Sinn Fein)

I will accept that there will not be clarity on the question of what exactly the package is going to look like. I have no doubt about that but I will ask the question. We are making the case for those sectors we would like to protect but every other state in the European Union is making the same arguments. It is necessary that we represent Irish views, needs and wants.

We also have to deal with the fact that we have to build up our indigenous sector. We know the issues as regards the failure to invest in infrastructure and, some would say, our excessive reliance on tax incentives. It is vital that we engage with the EU on key products and exports, that we explore new markets, develop supports for jobs in sectors under threat and tackle energy costs that are undermining our business and competitiveness. We know the issue that exists with respect to housing - the Tánaiste hears it from ISME, IBEC and others - and then investing in our infrastructure. Will the Tánaiste give an outline of the state of play regarding preparations for supports for businesses and diversification and any engagements there are with those sectors, particularly medtech and pharma, as well as others we believe will be impacted?

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