Vol. 495 No. 7
86 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the need to take initiative to safeguard Ireland's position as a desirable investment location having particular regard to ongoing and increased competition from south east Asia and other similar locations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21706/98]
142 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans, if any, she has to ensure the continuity of investment in view of increased competition from low wage regions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21954/98]
143 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the threat to investment in view of increased competition from low wage countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21955/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 142 and 143 together.
The changing patterns of competition for mobile international investment projects are reviewed on a regular basis. Ireland's main competitors for foreign direct investment are other countries in Europe.
Policies are being pursued to maximise the attractiveness of Ireland as a continuing desirable location for foreign and indigenous investment and to ensure that existing industry is competitive. In this context, particular emphasis with appropriate initiatives is being placed on addressing key competitiveness factors such as skills, costs, telecommunications and the information society.
Ireland is particularly strong in the electronics and software sectors. Our main competitive advantage here is our highly educated English speaking workforce. Because of its conviction that development of our workforce is the best way to both attract and safeguard long-term investment for Ireland, the Government has recently announced an additional £250 million investment in education particularly aimed at the development of information technology and language skills.
In addition, the recently concluded agreement between the Government and the European Commission which safeguards Ireland's low tax regime beyond the year 2010 will contribute substantially to maintaining Ireland's competitiveness for investment moving into Europe.
