Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has identified the issues affecting a lack of competitiveness in the economy; the steps he has taken or proposes to take to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15605/07]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Sustaining a strong enterprise environment is key to competitiveness for modern economies. Having enterprise policies that are flexible and evolve with business need is equally important. This ensures that Ireland is a profitable and secure location in which to invest is equally important.

A number of important advisory groups such as the Small Business Forum, the Enterprise Strategy Group and the Business Regulation Group have identified a range of competitiveness issues across their different areas of focus. My Department's enterprise support objectives include making sure that implementing these recommendations takes place as a priority. Initiatives to improve competitiveness wherever possible are a priority both for my Department and its enterprise development agencies.

Complementing the work of these advisory groups, the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) gives us an annual competitiveness health check. The reports and findings of the NCC are considered by Government and inform action-orientated follow-up across the relevant Government Departments.