Deirdre Clune (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Following the CSO figures last week on unemployment, it is important to note the live register figures yesterday, which have decreased from 12.6% last month to 12.5%. I wish I was welcoming a figure of 4%, but I am not. We will get there, however, as we are on the right track. Also, as Senator Hayden mentioned, Forbes yesterday announced that Ireland is the best country in which to do business. I congratulate the Taoiseach on reaching his target in 2013 rather than 2016. Ireland moved from sixth position last year.

It is important to look at the figures for how the country was measured across 11 categories, ranging across property rights, innovation, technology, freedom to do business, red tape and so forth. They are all weighted equally, so none was considered higher than another. That is important. Taxes were also included and they were weighted equally among the 11 measures. This is very positive progress and the challenge will be to remain in that position. The Action Plan for Jobs 2014 will be important in that regard. Like other Senators, I believe we must continue to focus on this area.

I would like the Minister to come to the House early in the new year so that we can track the progress of the 2013 jobs action plan and his preparations for the 2014 jobs action plan, which I understand will be in place shortly. Clearly the current approach is working. We need to keep on track and make sure we maintain the strong position we have at the moment.