Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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241. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on the reason persons from Ireland provided more submissions than all other EU states combined, in response to the call for experiences of people to explore the implementation of Directive 2019/1937 (Whistleblowing Directive); and if he is satisfied that the Directive has been properly transposed. [50939/25]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, Ireland has comprehensive legislation to protect workers in both the public and private sector who raise concerns about wrongdoing in the workplace. The statutory framework is governed by the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, which was significantly strengthened by the Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022. This legislation commenced operation on 1 January 2023 and gives effect to the EU Whistleblowing Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/1937).

Ireland’s notably high level of engagement in the European Commission’s consultation on the implementation of Directive 2019/1937 (the Whistleblowing Directive) reflects several interrelated factors. There has been heightened public awareness and ongoing discourse around whistleblowing in Ireland, particularly following recent high-profile cases and scrutiny of the regime’s effectiveness. Civil society organisations, advocacy groups, and individual stakeholders have actively engaged with the legislative process, fostering a culture of participation and reform.

I can assure the Deputy that Ireland has taken comprehensive steps to ensure full and proper transposition of the 2019 Directive. The 2022 Amendment Act broadened the scope of protections to include volunteers, board members, and job applicants, and introduced mandatory internal reporting channels for organisations with 50 or more employees. These provisions align closely with the Directive and reflect Ireland’s proactive approach to compliance.

I understand that the European Commission’s formal assessment of the completeness of Ireland’s transposition is positive. Earlier infringement proceedings related to Ireland’s transposition were formally closed by the Commission in 2023. They are currently finalising the conformity assessment, and my officials will continue to engage proactively with the Commission to address any outstanding issues.

My Department is satisfied that the Directive has been appropriately transposed and remains focused on continuous improvement through evidence-based policy and stakeholder engagement. A statutory review of the Protected Disclosures framework will commence shortly. This will include a public consultation, inviting input from whistleblowers, employers, legal experts, and advocacy organisations. It will provide an opportunity to assess the legislation’s practical operation and identify areas for refinement. The insights from the 40 Irish submissions to the EU consultation will also be carefully considered to inform future developments.

We remain committed to ensuring that Ireland’s whistleblower protections are not only legally sound but also accessible, effective, and responsive to evolving needs.