Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2018
128. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the degree to which IDA Ireland's development programme continues to develop to maximise advantages for job creation and economic competitiveness on international markets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17066/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraCompetition for global foreign direct investment (FDI) has become increasingly intense. Nevertheless, multinational companies continue to invest and reinvest here with leading global firms from many sectors - including life sciences, ICT, engineering and digital media - all based in Ireland. The contribution that these investments make to our wider economy is undoubtedly significant and the Government is working hard to ensure that the country remains a destination of choice for overseas firms.
Ireland's strengths when it comes to attracting FDI are well documented. These include our competitiveness, talented and productive workforce, favourable demographics and membership of the European Union. Our pro-enterprise business environment, and track record as a home to FDI, are also key factors. Reinforcing and sustaining these strengths is important to ensuring Ireland's continuing FDI competitiveness.
The IDA's 2017 Annual Results provides evidence of our continuing capacity to attract FDI to Ireland. Total employment by overseas companies in Ireland has now surpassed 210,000 people - a record level - with the numbers of investments also increasing. We are also attracting more investment to the regions.
