Vol. 525 No. 1
120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to ensure our competitiveness, having particular regard to the need to address inflation and other issues affecting the future stability of the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23730/00]
The Irish economy remains highly competitive. Unemployment is below 4%. GNP continues to expand rapidly at 8.8% year-on-year, according to the latest CSO data. Exports are also showing strong growth. The latest external trade figures show that exports in the first seven months of 2000 grew by 24% in value terms compared with the same period last year.
This Government is committed to ensuring that Ireland's competitiveness is maintained and to that end is working to contain inflationary pressures in the economy; fully implement the terms of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness; continue a prudent approach to budgetary policy, and implement the programme of investment as outlined in the national development plan.
