274. Deputy Catherine Ardagh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the plans to ensure that persons are fully informed in relation to investment products, in line with the development of a personal investment account; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26610/26]

317. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if investment advice will be offered as part of the personal investment account; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26612/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 274 and 317 together.

One of the aims of the Savings and Investments Union is to create better financial opportunities across the EU, providing people with more opportunities to invest and provide for their current and future prosperity. In September 2025, the European Commission adopted a recommendation on increasing the availability of Savings and Investment Accounts (SIAs) in Member States and this included an outline of their key characteristics.

At the recent Savings and Investment Forum, I announced the Government’s intention to introduce the legislative framework for an Investment Account in 2026. We want to make investing simpler, clearer, and more accessible for ordinary people, and help their hard-earned money work harder for them over time.

The aim is to legislate for the framework in 2026 and to allow accounts to be offered from 2027. The account will be designed as a simple, one-stop option for individuals. It will also be a key part of a broader rethink of the taxation of retail investment. The Government’s view that the account should be simple, accessible, tax efficient, easy to administer, transparent on fees and portable across borders where possible.

The issue of financial advice is a key one. Investors have different levels of financial literacy and expertise, and different investment objectives and risk appetites. In terms of designing the model that best fits the Irish economy and the needs of Irish households, the views of relevant experts are being considered as well as learnings from best international practices.

At the Forum, I also announced the launch of an Invitation for Expressions of Interest for the role of financial literacy ambassador for Ireland.

An ambassador will work closely with my department to support the National Financial Literacy Strategy and will also take part in an EU network of financial literacy ambassadors.

We need to improve levels of financial literacy in Ireland and support Irish people’s financial resilience and wellbeing. We need to empower people to make good financial decisions, including investing. I am looking forward to hearing from those passionate about and eager to lead on financial literacy in Ireland and across Europe.