Vol. 532 No. 3
84 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which she is monitoring the possible impact of inflation on employment creation here, with particular reference to the need for industry to remain competitive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7308/01]
I am pleased to record that inflation is falling – to 5.2% in February – and this in the context of an economy which continues to record the highest growth rate – in excess of 9% – in the European Union.
There is no sign that this current rate of inflation has had any impact on employment creation. Indeed, we continue to experience an extremely low unemployment rate – 3.6% last month. I am confident, therefore, that Irish enterprise remains competitive and that our overall economic performance is up to expectations.
