Shay Brennan
Dublin Rathdown · Fianna Fáil · Ireland
“The Minister will appreciate that the risk here is a straightforward competitiveness one. If competing jurisdictions provide clearer legal certainty first, the product development and the jobs that go with it will go elsewhere.”
“I thank the Minister. He will appreciate there is an urgency about this issue. The core requirement from the funds industry is quite narrow. It is recognition that distributed ledger technology is a valid medium for share issuance for transfer, registration and record keeping.”
“Ireland's funds industry manages trillions in assets and supports over 20,000 jobs. It is one of our most significant internationally traded sectors. Globally this sector is now moving rapidly towards tokenisation and the use of distributed ledger technology.”
“Ireland takes the chair of the 2028-2034 MFF negotiations in July. This is a pivotal period in these complex and highly consequential negotiations. Delivering a finalised agreement within our term would be of significant reputational benefit for Ireland.”
“It wants us to use that credibility to bring about a collective European response, because it understands, as we should, that collective European action is where the real impact lies.”
“The regulatory impact analysis acknowledges that this Bill could prompt a response from third countries, notably the United States, with what it calls a potentially significant adverse impact on Irish economic interests.”
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“To ensure ethical and responsible AI governance, we must strengthen the role of the AI Advisory Council in providing independent advice on emerging AI challenges. We need to roll out AI standards and certifications aligned with the EU AI Act and deliver transparency and accountability in public service AI deployments. AI is not some far-off concept. It is the present reality and is transforming our world. From the innovation tech hubs in Dublin to the enterprising communities right across rural Ireland, AI offers us the tools to enhance our quality of life, fuel economic growth and cement Ireland's position as a technological powerhouse on the global stage. We should embrace this challenge with the spirit of innovation and determination that has always been the hallmark of Irish ingenuity.”
“We must also develop AI strategies for key sectors such as healthcare, leveraging AI to improve patient access, experience and outcomes. Innovation and research are key to our success. We have to continue to support and expand initiatives like the national AI hub, increase funding for AI research and development and establish an AI regulatory testbed to foster innovation while ensuring responsible developments. On the international stage, we have a clear opportunity to strengthen Ireland's position in global AI initiatives and collaborations. We must leverage our unique position as an EU member with a strong foothold in the tech sector to play a key role in global AI development, roll-out and governance discussions.”
“The demand for AI professionals in Ireland has skyrocketed, with a 142% increase in the past six months alone. An additional 8,000 AI-related jobs are expected to be created this year. In my constituency, Dublin Rathdown, we are witnessing this growth first-hand. Our area is home to several global companies that have already announced hundreds of new local AI-related jobs. This is a testament to Ireland's growing reputation as a hub for AI innovation and talent. To drive AI adoption across our economy, we must develop a national campaign to raise awareness among small and medium enterprises of the benefits of AI adoption and the available supports. The Government can and should lead by example. We must use AI to transform online public services, making them more efficient and effective.”
“We are proud that Ireland was one of the first countries in the world to develop an industry-driven, postgraduate MSc in artificial intelligence, but we have to do more. We have to implement comprehensive AI education programmes at all levels, from primary schools to professional development. We must expand digital upskilling and reskilling initiatives, including those available via Skillnet and Springboard+. The impact of AI on our job market is already evident. While up to 160,000 jobs in Ireland could see more than half of their work activities automated by AI, the majority of Irish employers believe that AI adoption will ultimately result in more jobs, not fewer. In fact, 51% of employers report that AI introduction will create more roles than it replaces. We are seeing this trend in action.”
“The strategy emphasises our commitment to a humancentric, ethical approach to AI development, adoption and use. We must position Ireland at the forefront of implementing the EU AI Act, participate constructively in the EU AI board, and foster public trust through transparency and engagement. Our Government must increase investment in AI. While we are set to increase spending on AI research projects by over 50% to €1.8 million in 2025, we must go further. We must guide the development of data centre infrastructure crucial for AI growth, focusing on renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technology. We must also invest in nationwide 5G and other critical digital infrastructure to support AI development. Education and skills development are crucial.”
“Today, we are addressing a matter of critical national importance, which is the transformative power of artificial intelligence and the significant opportunity for Ireland to establish itself as a global leader in this field. The decision we make now will impact not only our economic future but also the way we work, live and interact as a society for decades to come. As we embark into 2025, it is clear that AI is no longer a distant prospect but a present reality reshaping our economy and society. The potential of AI to drive growth and innovation in Ireland is immense, with some projections even suggesting it could boost GDP by tens of millions over the next decade. To seize this opportunity, we must build upon the refreshed AI - Here for Good: National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.”
“While I recognise and respect the crucial role of the Opposition in holding the Government to account, I also believe that there are times we must come together, setting aside partisan differences for the betterment of Ireland. I call on my colleagues across the floor to engage constructively when the national interest most demands it, just as we in government must be open to good ideas regardless of their source. Together, we can build a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Ireland for all.”
“Our constituents rely on the services daily and any disruption significantly impacts their lives and livelihoods. While BusConnects is an ambitious and necessary project, it is crucial that it is implemented correctly. We must ensure that gaps in service, in particular on radial routes, are filled without delay. The success of our public transport system hinges on its reliability and accessibility. It is incumbent on the relevant bodies to address these issues promptly and effectively, ensuring that our citizens have the dependable transport network they deserve. In conclusion, I look forward to collaborating with colleagues across the Chamber on the promises outlined in the programme for Government, as well as supporting additional measures that benefit all in Ireland.”
“In addition, the programme's focus on education, with a pledge to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio to 19:1 in primary schools, will ensure our children receive the focused attention they need to thrive. I am particularly pleased to note the Government's strong commitment to improving our public transport system. We recognise that efficient and reliable public transport is not just a convenience, but a necessity for a modern and thriving society. The programme for Government outlines significant investments in our transport infrastructure, including the expansion of rail services, the improvement of bus networks and the development of active travel infrastructure. However, I must address the recent problem with bus services in Dublin which need to be rectified urgently.”
“Many individuals inherit from siblings, aunts, uncles or other relatives and these thresholds have not kept pace with the changing economic landscape. Over my time in the Dáil, I will advocate for a comprehensive review of all thresholds to ensure a fairer and more equitable inheritance tax system for all citizens. Returning to the programme for Government, I am committed to supporting its ambitious healthcare reforms, including the significant increase in hospital bed capacity. This expansion will be crucial in addressing the healthcare needs of our growing population. I will advocate strongly for a fair distribution of these new resources to ensure that all communities have access to the high-quality healthcare they deserve.”
“We have seen at first hand the challenges posed by the housing crisis and I am confident that our continued efforts will make a significant difference. While not explicitly outlined in the programme for Government, I am pleased to highlight a significant and positive change in budget 2025, namely, the reform of inheritance tax. The increase in the group A tax-free threshold from €335,000 to €400,000 is a substantial step forward. This change acknowledges the considerable rise in property values in recent years and aims to ease the financial burden on families passing on their hard-earned assets to the next generation. Moreover, it is crucial that we also address the thresholds for categories B and C.”
“This comprehensive document, agreed on by our coalition, outlines crucial commitments in areas such as housing, healthcare and climate action. I am particularly encouraged by the Government's continued commitment to addressing the housing crisis. It is important to note that significant progress has already been made in this area and this programme for Government is a commitment to finish that crucial work. Between the last term and this coming term, the Government will have overseen the creation of half a million new homes. This achievement will have a tangible impact on the lives of countless people. The commitment to deliver 300,000 new homes by 2030 represents real progress for families across Ireland.”
“It is with great honour and humility that I rise today to deliver my maiden speech as a Fianna Fáil Deputy. I am deeply grateful to my constituents in Dublin Rathdown for their trust and support. As I stand here, I am acutely aware of the responsibility bestowed upon me and the legacy of public service that has shaped my path. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my campaign team and the countless volunteers who worked tirelessly. Their dedication and belief in our shared vision have made this moment possible. I am also indebted to the party members and supporters who have placed their faith in me. Their encouragement and insights have been invaluable and I pledge to work diligently to repay their trust. The recently published programme for Government sets forth an ambitious vision for our nation over the next five years.”