Brendan Griffin
Question:43. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to create jobs in the construction sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42572/13]
View answerThursday, 10 October 2013
Questions (43)
Written answers
One of the actions under the Action Plan for Jobs 2012 was the development of a strategy for the Construction sector to 2015. This work was undertaken by Forfás and the report, entitled Ireland’s Construction Sector: Outlook and Strategic Plan to 2015 was published in July 2013 along with the Government response to the report announcing measures to be undertaken. One such measure was the establishment of a new Construction Sector Consultation and Coordination Group. This Group will be chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach and will provide a forum for engagement with industry, involving relevant Departments and agencies and focusing on key issues for the sector.
The Government recognises the need for strong and clear responsibility for the Construction Sector across Government and it has been agreed that regular ministerial level oversight is warranted. To this end, once a quarter the Cabinet Committee on Economic Recovery and Jobs will focus specifically on issues relating to the Construction and Property sectors. Within my own Department Enterprise Ireland plays a role in developing the export potential of the construction sector. While the UK continues to be the key export market for construction sector clients, Enterprise Ireland are also focusing on a number of key target markets & regions for future growth such as near European markets, Central Gulf States in the Middle East, Australia and Western Canada.
Enterprise Ireland has in place a range of direct supports to assist established client companies, including those in the construction sector, to enable them to develop and grow their business outside of Ireland. In addition to working with companies already exporting, Enterprise Ireland is now working with a broader range of companies than heretofore. The objective is to stimulate greater activity amongst pre-international companies including construction companies and to reorient those demonstrating real growth potential from the domestic to the international market place.
Question No. 44 answered with Question No. 21.