asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will comment on the reference in the recent OECD Survey to Ireland's competitive position vis-à-vis other countries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - OECD Survey.
55.
The OECD Survey on Ireland states that the maintenance of a satisfactory rate of economic growth may require an improvement in the competitive position of Irish industry. The Deputy will not be unaware that I and other Ministers have repeatedly stressed the need for Irish firms to improve their efficiency and productivity by utilising the wide range of financial aids and services which are available for this purpose from Government Departments and State-sponsored bodies. I, and other members of the Government, have also emphasised time and again that it is imperative for Irish industry to avoid any disimprovement in competitiveness resulting from increased wages and salaries that are not matched by increased productivity.