Vol. 535 No. 3
91 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has satisfied herself that Irish industry remains sufficiently competitive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12694/01]
92 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has satisfied herself having regard to import-export figures in the past number of months that industry here remains competitive and is soundly based for the future; if her attention has been drawn to any factors requiring urgent attention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12695/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 92 together.
A key focus of this Government's policy has been to strengthen Irish industry's overall economic competitiveness through a range of actions. At the macro level we are continuing to cut the burden of taxation and regulation on enterprise, thus ensuring that the enterprise sector remains competitive and soundly based for the future.
A major feature of the activity of our enterprise agencies has been to reorientate industry towards higher value added sectors and restructuring in the indigenous and foreign owned industrial base. This has led to a shift in employment into higher productivity sectors, thereby maintaining competitiveness.
The most recent CSO trade release figures show that Ireland's merchandise trade performance continues to be outstanding. Exports last year totalled over £65 billion – 83 billion – the highest level ever recorded. The trade surplus exceeded all previous records and grew by 23% to stand at £22 billion – 28 billion – for the year.
