Joe Neville (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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39. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when it is envisaged that a new whole-of-Government action plan on competitiveness and productivity will be finalised in line with the Programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21741/25]

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Ireland currently holds a strong competitive position globally. This performance is reflected in our exceptionally strong economic performance in recent years. However, the international context is rapidly changing, and we recognise that many businesses, whether indigenous or FDI, are facing increased challenges.

In recognition of these challenges facing Ireland, the current Programme for Government committed to the publication of a new whole of Government Action Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity by January 2026. The Government has, however, accelerated this timeline, with a draft of the Plan to be considered by Ministers at a Competitiveness Summit this July. This plan will cover industrial policy, reducing the cost and regulatory burden on business, investing in infrastructure, digital regulation and reform, energy reform, international trade and research and development, and innovation.

Over the coming weeks, the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council will finalise and submit its Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge 2025 report to Government. This work will feed into the development of the Action Plan. Alongside this, my Department is undertaking consultation with stakeholders including other Government Departments to ensure that the Action Plan is evidence based and reflects the issues impacting Ireland’s competitiveness.

Given the heightened level of international uncertainty, the overarching objective of the Action Plan will be to focus on matters within our control by way of policy changes which can make the domestic Irish economy more competitive and resilient to economic shocks.