Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2019
178. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he can take steps to minimise the impact of Brexit on the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10949/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraCentral to the Government’s preparation for Brexit is the prudent management of the public finances so as to ensure the economy remains competitive in the face of future economic headwinds. Dedicated measures to prepare for Brexit have been announced in Budgets 2017, 2018 and 2019, to ensure that Ireland is in the best possible position to respond to the challenges that Brexit will bring.
Most recently, Budget 2019 ensures that the economy is prepared for the challenges of Brexit through continued prudent management of the public finances: by balancing the books; reducing the debt burden; improving the competitiveness of our personal taxation system; and continuing to invest in infrastructure.
It builds on other Government initiatives, namely investing in the future of the country through Project Ireland 2040; opening new markets for businesses through the Global Ireland 2025 strategy; and developing policies to adapt to changes in the world of work through the Future Jobs Programme.
Budget 2019 contains specific measures aimed at making Ireland Brexit ready, including increased resources across a range of Departments and Offices; the introduction of the €300 million Future Growth Loan Scheme to provide a longer-term facility to support strategic capital investment by business at competitive rates in a post-Brexit environment; and a €71 million package to further strengthen the agriculture sector’s ability to become more resilient in addressing the challenges of Brexit.
