Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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73. To ask the Minister for Finance when he plans to publish the summer economic statement 2018. [21886/18]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The publication of the Summer Economic Statement (SES), forms a key part of the reformed budgetary process designed to complement the Stability Programme Update (SPU). The macroeconomic outlook set out in April, as part of the SPU, will underpin the SES. The SES will broadly set out what the Government believes to be the appropriate fiscal policy next year, taking into account Ireland's stage in the economic cycle.

Whilst the economy is forecast to continue to grow strongly over the coming years, the SES will reflect the need to avoid any policy measures which could contribute to overheating in the economy. As a small open economy we are exposed to a number of external risks, particularly in relation to Brexit, changes in the international tax landscape and rising geopolitical tensions, all of which have the potential to destabilise our economy. The Government is cognisant of these risks and recognises the need to plan for the future and manage our resources in a prudent fashion. Given the uncertainty we face over the coming years we need to continue to focus on enhancing our competitiveness and building up resilience in our public finances.

I aim to publish the Summer Economic Statement in the Summer.