Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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14. To ask the Minister for Finance his views on the most effective measures that are likely to impact positively on the economy in view of Covid-19 in the shortest possible time in the context of economic recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16197/20]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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20. To ask the Minister for Finance his views on whether financial supports to restart the economy in the aftermath of Brexit and Covid-19 are realisable and will be effective in the short to medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16198/20]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 20 together.

The Government has committed to a series of immediate actions to support the economy following the Covid-19 pandemic. These measures will be set out in the forthcoming July stimulus. Building on the existing suite of supports introduced since the crisis began, these measures will help sustain incomes, boost business and help ‘kick-start’ the economy.

The Government has, furthermore, committed to bringing forward a National Economic Plan, to be published alongside the Budget in October, which will outline the Government’s plans to support the long-term sustainability of the economy. This plan will be centred on the principle of protecting our economy as much as possible from future shocks, such as another public health crisis, the impact of climate change, or the potential failure to achieve a trade agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union at the end of this year.

As I have stated many times, it is entirely appropriate that the Government acts to support the economy in this unprecedented period. This is an option available to us because of the work done in recent years to place the public finances on a sustainable footing. It is essential that as we recover from the effects of the pandemic and look to safeguard against future challenges, we return to a sustainable fiscal path over the medium-term.