65. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment his response to the recommendations of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council as set out in Ireland’s Competitiveness Challenge 2026. [66654/26]

I welcome the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council’s analysis and recommendations, as set out in the Competitiveness Challenge report. The report provides a timely assessment of both the challenges and opportunities facing Ireland’s economy, at a time of significant global uncertainty.

I particularly welcome the Council’s recognition of Ireland’s continued strong performance in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings, where Ireland ranked 7th globally and remains the most competitive economy in the euro area. This highlights the many strengths of our economy, including our openness, skilled workforce and reputation for sound economic management. It also underlines the need for continued action to address areas where improvement is required, particularly around infrastructure and the cost of doing business

This work by the Council is highly valuable in informing Government policy. We will carefully consider the recommendations outlined in the Competitiveness Challenge 2026 report and will continue to work across Government to ensure Ireland remains an attractive, competitive and resilient location in which to live, work, invest and do business.