Vol. 573 No. 5
108 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the current rating of Ireland in terms of economic competitiveness in the international arena; the way in which he intends to address the deteriorating situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26005/03]
I am naturally concerned about our competitiveness. I am also aware that there are various measures of competitiveness which attract media comment from time to time. However, sustaining competitiveness and consolidating the gains of Ireland's exceptional economic performance over recent years in order to support growth and maintain high levels of employment going forward are central to our macroeconomic strategy. As outlined in Sustaining Progress, the renewal of competitiveness both domestically and internationally is being dealt with under a broad range of policy headings. A second progress report on Sustaining Progress was recently laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Question No. 109 answered with Question No. 21.
