55. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for an update on the stakeholder working group established to assist implementation of the eight areas of reform and modernisation applicable to Local Enterprise Offices which were presented to Government via a Memorandum for Information in July 2026. [66801/26]

Since their establishment in 2014, the LEOs have expanded from their original mandate for businesses which offered accessible advice, training and financial supports to now delivering broader capability building across digitalisation, sustainability, exporting, productivity and innovation to a broader range of clients.

While the Local Enterprise Office model remains strong and has delivered considerable value, there are challenges which now need to be addressed.

In developing proposals to introduce reforms to the LEO operational model, Enterprise Ireland in consultation with Department officials, considered evidence including an external report commissioned in late 2025 by the Department which undertook a review and evaluation of the LEO supports.

The report provided recommendations which focus on improving the systems, processes and evidence base that support the LEO model. These recommendations broadly align with the reforms and enhancements currently proposed the LEO Network.

A temporary working group was established during the summer of 2026 to support the LEO reform and modernisation agenda and comprised representatives from Enterprise Ireland, Local Authorities, the LEO Network and my Department.

The Group has now developed a comprehensive implementation plan to deliver the commitments set out in the Memorandum to Government on the reforms and modernisation of LEO operational model. The implementation plan was approved by the LEO Steering Group at its meeting on 18th September 2026.

The finalised implementation plan provides a clear roadmap for the delivery of the measures agreed by Government and establishes a framework of actions, responsibilities, timelines, risks and dependencies across all eight interlinked themes which allows for close monitoring of progress and accountability over the implementation period.

The approach to implementation, which is being led by Enterprise Ireland, is based on actions organised around eight overarching themes, as set out in the Memo for Government, relating to:

• Putting businesses first and improved customer service

• Stronger, deeper and more consistent client engagement

• System modernisation

• Outcome-focused performance framework

• Improved integration of the National Enterprise Hub

• Simplification of business supports

• Support for emerging exporters

• Stronger enterprise culture.