Grace Boland (Dublin Fingal West, Fine Gael)
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594. To ask the Minister for Finance if he will provide an updated assessment of the economic contribution of the aircraft leasing sector to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47123/25]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The aircraft leasing sector continues to make a significant contribution to the Irish economy, providing high-quality employment and wages while supporting tax revenues.

According to a recent publication by the Central Statistics Office, employment in the sector has increased by around 7 per cent between 2019 and 2024. Approximately 3,000 people were employed in the sector last year.

Wages in the aircraft leasing sector are significantly above average and have continued to increase in recent years. Over the past five years, average annual earnings in the sector increased by around 12 per cent, with average earnings equating to over €200,000 in 2024.

Operational leasing exports amounted to over €20 billion last year.

According to Revenue, net corporation tax receipts in the aircraft leasing sector amounted to over €150 million in 2024, an increase from almost €70 million in 2023. Employment taxes paid in the sector totaled €348 million in 2024, an increase from €310 million in 2023.