Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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525. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is aware of the proposed omnibus legislation launched by the European Commission on February 26 2025; if he is concerned that the proposed legislation has the potential to reinforce corporate impunity, prioritising the right of large companies to make profits above human rights, environmental protections and climate action; if he will oppose the omnibus proposal at EU level and publicly commit to enacting national due diligence legislation that prioritises protecting rights and the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11347/25]

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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There is a particular focus on simplification and burden reduction at EU level with a view to improving EU competitiveness and ensuring there aren’t disproportionate burdens on business, particularly SMEs. This is articulated in the Letta and Draghi Reports and has informed the new European Commission and the recently published Commission’s Work Programme which proposes a series of so-called “omnibus proposals”.

Ireland is supportive of the ongoing efforts to enhance the EU regulatory framework. We acknowledge the efforts of the Commission in implementing real change for business and acknowledge that the first omnibus proposal on sustainability significantly reduces the burden on business.

It is important that we don’t lose sight of the objectives of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which aims to promote responsible business conduct. We want better regulation not deregulation. However, in the context of optimising the competitiveness of EU companies in the evolving global trading environment and ensuring proportionality, Ireland is supportive in principle of initiatives to simplify the reporting requirements and reduce costs on companies, and most especially for SMEs.

Preparations have been ongoing in my Department since the publication of the CSDDD with a view to transposing the directive by 26 July 2026. However, subject to agreement at EU level that date is likely to change. My Department will continue its transposition preparations for the Directive and will comply with an amended transposition date if amended at EU level.