Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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49. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs supported by Enterprise Ireland in Kerry in 2024; how this compares to the end of 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6624/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Enterprise Ireland supported jobs in 2020 and 2024:

Employment in Enterprise Ireland supported companies in County Kerry has increased by 11% since 2020, it now currently stands at 5,206.

In 2024 alone there were 293 jobs created by Enterprise Ireland supported companies in Kerry, leading to employment growth of 3% last year, a rate of growth that is in line with the national average rate of growth in Enterprise Ireland supported companies.

More broadly in 2024, Enterprise Ireland clients achieved very good employment growth, with total employment reaching a record 234,454 people. This represents a 3% increase from the previous year, with 15,741 new jobs created. Notably, 64% of these new jobs were based outside the Dublin region, highlighting the agency’s commitment to fostering regional development. The west of Ireland emerged as the strongest growing region, with employment rising by 6%, double the national average.

The regional impact of Enterprise Ireland’s efforts is evident in the distribution of job growth across all nine regions, each recording positive employment figures. This focus on regional development not only boosts local economies but also ensures a more balanced economic growth across the country. Enterprise Ireland’s strategy of supporting ambitious, globally focused Irish companies continues to drive job creation and economic resilience, particularly in areas outside the capital.