Tony McCormack
Offaly · Fianna Fáil · Ireland
“I welcome the continued success of the agrifood sector. It is one of Ireland's greatest national success stories, supporting thousands of jobs, sustaining rural communities and making an enormous contribution to our economy. We are really proud of our Offaly food companies like Glenisk, Tullamore Dew and others.”
“Ireland's reputation as one of the world's leading food producing nations has been built over generations through quality, innovation and unwavering commitment to high standards. However, it cannot be taken for granted.”
“We all know the importance of the agri sector and in particular the agrifood sector. In the ever-changing geopolitical world we live in today, food safety is becoming even more important, while we must also focus on our economy and growing our exports.”
“Will the Minister outline what new initiatives his Department is bringing forward, working with the likes of Teagasc, Bord Bia and industry, to ensure Ireland remains among the world's most competitive, innovative and trusted food producing nations for the next generation?”
“I welcome the continued success of IDA Ireland in attracting foreign direct investment at a time when global competition for investment has never been more intense. Today, companies are looking for countries that can provide certainty, speed, skilled people and investment-ready sites. Offaly is well positioned to compete in this.”
“I commend the Minister and his Department on the priority they have placed on lifelong learning. It is something we should be very proud of. We now have the highest level of third level education attainment in the European Union, with over 65% of young adults holding a third level qualification.”
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“Will the Minister outline what new initiatives his Department is bringing forward, working with the likes of Teagasc, Bord Bia and industry, to ensure Ireland remains among the world's most competitive, innovative and trusted food producing nations for the next generation?”
“Ireland's reputation as one of the world's leading food producing nations has been built over generations through quality, innovation and unwavering commitment to high standards. However, it cannot be taken for granted. Around the world, our competitors are investing heavily in research, technology, productivity and new product development and the pace of change is accelerating. If Ireland is to remain a global leader in the next decade, we must continue to invest in innovation, improve productivity and support farmers and food producers to adapt to changing markets and consumer demand. Food Vision 2030, which the Minister mentioned earlier, provides a strong roadmap but ambition must always be matched by action.”
“Will the Minister outline the long-term vision for achieving that ambition and the next steps his Department and Bord Bia will take to help Irish-owned food businesses to grow, innovate and succeed internationally?”
“I welcome the continued success of the agrifood sector. It is one of Ireland's greatest national success stories, supporting thousands of jobs, sustaining rural communities and making an enormous contribution to our economy. We are really proud of our Offaly food companies like Glenisk, Tullamore Dew and others. Irish food has earned an outstanding reputation around the world because of its quality and the commitment of our farmers and food producers. The success of our agrifood sector should give us confidence to be even more ambitious. We should be helping more Irish-owned food businesses to innovate, expand into new markets, create more high quality jobs and compete successfully around the world. That is how to build stronger rural economies and ensure the next generation sees real opportunities in the food industry.”
“We all know the importance of the agri sector and in particular the agrifood sector. In the ever-changing geopolitical world we live in today, food safety is becoming even more important, while we must also focus on our economy and growing our exports. What that in mind, what measures are being taken to support the growth and international expansion of Irish-owned food and agrifood businesses?”
“It begins years earlier when the Government ensures that strategic sites are ready to compete. If we are serious about balanced regional development, counties like Offaly must be equipped to win the next generation of investment and the high-quality jobs that come with it.”
“I welcome the continued success of IDA Ireland in attracting foreign direct investment at a time when global competition for investment has never been more intense. Today, companies are looking for countries that can provide certainty, speed, skilled people and investment-ready sites. Offaly is well positioned to compete in this. IDA Ireland has already demonstrated its confidence in the county by acquiring a strategic site for future industrial development. However, the land alone does not attract investment. Companies need sites that are fully serviced and ready for development. Will the Tánaiste support prioritising the enabling of infrastructure needed to bring this site to market as quickly as possible? The race for investment does not begin when a company contacts IDA Ireland.”
“Will he outline how his Department is working with employers, higher education institutions and enterprise agencies to strengthen Ireland's culture of lifelong learning and ensure we will remain one of the most attractive locations in Europe for investment now and in the years ahead?”
“One of Ireland's greatest competitive advantages has always been the quality of the people. Increasingly, however, international investors are looking at not only educational attainment but how quickly a country's workforce can adapt to technological changes and acquire new skills. With AI, as we talked about earlier, transforming almost every sector of our economy, lifelong learning is becoming an increasingly important factor in attracting and retaining foreign direct investment. Countries that can rapidly upskill and reskill their workforce will have a significant competitive advantage and I strongly support the work the Minister is doing in this area.”
“We have to be very cognisant of the opportunities that are there with AI but also be willing to make sure we achieve and keep the jobs we have already in the economy.”
“I commend the Minister and his Department on the priority they have placed on lifelong learning. It is something we should be very proud of. We now have the highest level of third level education attainment in the European Union, with over 65% of young adults holding a third level qualification. We are also performing strongly in the lifelong learning ranking, at sixth in the European Union for adult participation. However, while sixth is a strong position, we should always aim to be number one. As technology evolves and careers become more dynamic, lifelong learning is no longer simply an education issue; it is becoming an economic necessity. When I say that, I am talking about the business requirements and the jobs that will be lost.”
“We are all very aware of what is happening in the AI space and the rapid pace it is taking over our lives, both at home and in businesses. What progress is being made in expanding lifelong learning opportunities to support people in upskilling and reskilling throughout their working lives? I am specifically referencing AI and the business requirements and businesses needs companies have at the moment.”
“Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to increases in insurance costs. Unlike larger firms, they often have limited purchasing power and little capacity to absorb significant increases in premiums. For many, insurance is now one of their largest operating costs. Will the Tánaiste outline whether the Cabinet subcommittee is considering any targeted measures to improve competition and affordability in the insurance market for small businesses, in particular the scope for additional reforms to ensure smaller enterprises benefit fully from the Government's insurance reform programme?”
“I welcome the Tánaiste's response and the work that has been undertaken on insurance reform in recent years. However, many businesses, sporting organisations, community groups and voluntary bodies continue to raise concerns with me and other TDs about the cost and availability of insurance. Will the Tánaiste specifically outline the key priorities the Cabinet subgroup will consider in its next meeting? Will it examine whether the savings arising from the reforms already introduced are being passed on through lower premiums? What further measures are under consideration to improve affordability?”
“The Tánaiste and I will know that the cost of insurance for families and businesses is probably one the biggest costs every year, be it car insurance, home insurance or general business insurance. Can the Tánaiste indicate when the Cabinet subgroup on insurance reform will next meet and will he make a statement on the matter?”
“I am not that small. I welcome the progress being made on the Shannon water supply project, which is now before An Coimisiún Pleanála. This project is about much more than supplying Dublin with water. It is also about creating opportunities in the future to develop spurs leading to Tullamore and Mullingar, which would create a counterbalance to Dublin and drive balanced growth within the midlands region. We all know that, when projects get done, the second phase can sometimes be left on the long finger, which can push them 20, 30 or 40 years down the road. Will the Taoiseach work with me to put pressure on Irish Water to ensure this second phase happens? It should become part of the first phase to provide more opportunities in Offaly, Westmeath and right across the midlands.”
“Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit. Another key objective of the SME test is to identify circumstances where exemption thresholds or more proportionate requirements may be appropriate for smaller businesses. Can the Minister of State provide examples where the SME test has resulted in exemptions or thresholds being introduced for smaller businesses? Furthermore, does he believe there is scope to expand the use of such measures in future, especially where the cost of compliance falls disproportionately on small businesses with limited staff and resources?”
“Will he outline specific examples where the SME test has resulted in reduced reporting obligations, streamlined processes or simplified compliance requirements for small businesses?”
“Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit. The principle, as he said, behind the SME test is to think small first to reduce unnecessary administrative burdens on businesses. However, many small business owners would say they are still spending too much time dealing with paperwork and compliance requirements rather than running their businesses. For example, a constituent who operates a petrol station informed me he requires 14 separate licences, permits and registrations to operate his business. While each requirement may have a valid purpose, the cumulative burden can be significant. A lot of these requirements were there before we brought in the SME test but what can the Minister of State and his colleagues do to reduce this burden going forward?”
“Last year we brought in the SME test. It is a great way of checking all legislation before it comes in to see how it will affect SMEs. In what ways does the Minister think the test has helped small businesses in that time?”
“I welcome the strong performance in attracting investment into Ireland and the commitment to balanced regional development. As we look at the next phase of growth, it is important that counties such as Offaly and the wider midlands continue to benefit from new investment opportunities. Will the Minister provide an update on the measures being taken to support regional locations in competing for future investment? We are grateful in Offaly, particularly in Tullamore, for the investment by IDA Ireland in lands for a new IDA Ireland park. What progress has been made in getting the infrastructure into this park and what progress has been made in strengthening regional enterprise infrastructure, skills provision and site development so areas such as the midlands will be well positioned to secure a greater share of future jobs and investment?”
“We are no longer in a position of comfort. Companies from other parts of the world will be looking at Ireland from a fiscal point of view, so what is the Minister of State's Department doing to make sure we remain as competitive as possible?”
“I welcome the Government's continued focus on competitiveness and attracting investment through IDA Ireland. It is clear that the international trading environment has become more challenging in recent years, with increasing trade barriers and growing competition for investment globally. Given Ireland's reliance on international trade and FDI, will the Minister of State outline the key actions being taken across government to strengthen our competitiveness? In particular, what progress has been made in areas such as infrastructure delivery, skills development and regulatory efficiency, which are increasingly important factors for companies considering Ireland as a location for investment? As sure as day follows night, and as we see in the economy, after every boom there is a recession. Things are getting tight at the moment.”
“Competitiveness is so important to Ireland as an open market economy. What measures have been taken by the Department to improve Ireland's competitiveness to attract and retain FDI? Will the Minister of State make a statement on it?”
“Will the Taoiseach ask the Minister for housing to examine the current legislation and consider giving local authorities stronger powers to deal with antisocial behaviour and put more pressure on AHBs to deal with these types of issues quickly. The people causing these problems should be moved on, not the families who are simply trying to live peacefully in their own homes.”
“Antisocial behaviour in some local authority estates and approved housing body, AHB, estates is becoming a growing concern. Constituents regularly contact me regarding intimidation, harassment, bullying and serious criminal activity. In some cases, affected residents will not contact the Garda for fear of reprisals. I have zero tolerance for this behaviour. Too often, the same individuals are given chance after chance while innocent neighbours are left living in fear in their own homes. In many cases, it is the victims who are forced to seek transfers, often waiting months or years to escape the situation while those causing the problems remain in place without consequences.”
“Similar concerns are arising in other places , including Tullamore and Tyrells Road. The improvement of water infrastructure in Tullamore was supposed to start in the final quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year, but it has now been pushed out to 2028. Does the Minister accept there is a need for stronger accountability, engagement and transparency from Uisce Éireann with elected representatives from local communities in order that people can clearly understand what infrastructure projects are planned, what stage they are at and when delivery can realistically be expected?”
“I thank the Minister for that. It all sounds great. I appreciate the 26 weeks and the 12 months that have been saved by Uisce Éireann. However, one of the biggest concerns I hear from councillors, other public representatives and communities is not simply the level of investment going into Uisce Éireann - and very significant State funding was put in by the Minister in the budget - but, rather, whether the organisation has the operational capacity and responsiveness necessary to manage that investment effectively and to communicate clearly with communities. For instance, in my county of Offaly, Edenderry, Birr, Banagher and other areas are already at capacity in the context of wastewater. This is directly impacting future housing and development potential, yet there remains a lack of clarity around timelines and planned upgrades.”
“Can the Minister outline what practical improvements are being seen on the ground as a result of the implementation of the accelerated infrastructure plan? Can he indicated whether measurable timelines for delivery are beginning to improve as a result of the reforms and co-ordination measures introduced?”
“I welcome the fact that all of the targets relating to the infrastructure plan are being hit. The Minister and his staff are to be complimented on ensuring that this has happened. I also welcome the Government's continued focus on accelerating the delivery of crucial infrastructure projects, particularly in view of the importance of housing, transport and utilities to economic growth and regional development. One issue that is occasionally raised by communities, businesses and local authorities is the need for greater co-ordination and faster decision-making across the agencies and Departments involved in major projects. Delays in infrastructure delivery can have very real consequences for housing supply, inward investment and regional growth.”
“At the same time, one of the real strengths of the credit union movement is that while credit unions continues to modernise and adopt new technologies, people can still walk into a local branch, sit down face to face and discuss financial matters with someone who understands their circumstances but also, most important, understands the community they come from. Does the Minister of State believe there is scope for further support, collaboration and shared service models within the credit union movement in order that the sector can continue expanding responsible while maintaining that trusted local presence?”
“I thank the Minister of State. Credit unions have also been given greater capacity to grow, as he said, including the ability to lend over 30% of their assets in long-term lending. However, business lending still remains a relatively small part of the overall market, with approximately €190 million currently in SME and business lending. There is clearly potential for further growth in this area, as the Minister of State said, particularly for small businesses and local enterprise seeking relationship-based finance.”
“Does the Minister of State agree that supporting the responsible expansion of credit union mortgage lending represents a significant opportunity within the Irish banking market?”
“I thank the Minister of State for his response. As I said earlier, credit unions already play an enormously important role in communities, with millions of account holders across Ireland and a very high level of public trust. Following the departure of a number of retail banks from the Irish market, there is clear need for greater competition within the banking sector. One of the most significant opportunities for expansion is in mortgage lending. While credit unions currently account for only 1% of the mortgage market, the sector has ambitious plans to expand substantially in this area, potentially up to €10 billion in mortgage lending over time. Greater competition in that space would be hugely positive for consumers and could help place downward pressure on mortgage rates.”
“Would the Tánaiste consider asking the Department to examine both indexation measures and a targeted reinvestment relief model ahead of the next budget, particularly where proceeds are reinvested into SMEs, innovation and job creation here in Ireland?”
“Another issue that has been raised consistently is the failure to index capital gains tax, CGT, thresholds and exemptions over time. When CGT was introduced in 1974, the annual exemption was £500 and if indexed properly would be a lot more than £500 today. That would have been 10% of the average value of a house at the time. Instead, the exemption currently stands at €1,270 and has not been adjusted since 1992, when it was set at £1,000. There is a legitimate concern that taxpayers can end up paying increased tax simply due to inflationary growth in their asset value over time rather than any real gain.”
“In that context, would the Tánaiste agree that there is merit in examining a more competitive and targeted capital gains tax approach for active business assets, particularly where proceeds are reinvested into Irish enterprise, regional employment and productive economic activity?”
“I thank the Tánaiste for his response. I welcome the Government's continuing focus on competitiveness and supporting indigenous enterprise. As we all know, investment is vital in enabling companies to grow and expand and for start-up companies to get off the ground. However, Ireland's 33% CGT rate remains among the highest in Europe and there are growing concerns that it can discourage reinvestment, entrepreneurship and business scaling. The Taoiseach himself recently acknowledged concerns that Ireland may be losing some investment and capital when people sell businesses and relocate elsewhere. He also made the important point that what matters is ensuring that capital is recycled back into smaller companies, innovation and new technologies.”
“From my work on the infrastructure committee, it is clear that Government is putting major investment and the right frameworks in place, particularly through the work the Minister, Deputy Chambers, has done on infrastructure legislation; the work the Minister, Deputy Browne, is doing in housing delivery; and that of the Taoiseach himself and his Department. The Government is now providing a huge amount of money to the likes of Uisce Éireann over the next five years, which is a very significant level of investment. However, concerns continue to arise around whether the organisation currently has the operational capacity, technical expertise and the management structures needed to deliver these projects. Will the Taoiseach outline what further steps are being taken to strengthen delivery?”
“I welcome that the Government is continuing to work closely with our European partners to strengthen and unify the European response. We cannot simply stand by and watch what is happening in Gaza. Ireland has led internationally on this issue and was first out of the blocks to condemn it at the start. We should continue to lead within Europe in pushing for a clear and principled response. I thank the Minister for her strong remarks over the last period in response to what has happened to the people on the peace flotilla. What has happened is disgusting and beyond belief. We must act in unison with our European colleagues and impose trade sanctions on Israel. What discussions are now taking place at EU level regarding possible collective measures, including the examination of sanctions linked to illegal settlements?”
“At a time when many people across Europe are calling for stronger action, it is important that Ireland continues to speak with clarity and moral authority at both EU and international level. I ask the Minister to provide an update on the Government's current engagement with EU partners on the situation in Gaza and the efforts under way to build a stronger and more united European response. In particular, what role is Ireland playing in advocating for a collective European position, grounded in international law, humanitarianism, protection and accountability?”
“I am delighted that the Minister has all the stakeholders involved in the forum and commend the work that has been done. I thank her for her comprehensive response. In light of what has happened the last 24 hours, I hope she will forgive me for deviating a little from the question. I welcome her and the Taoiseach’s remarks yesterday and again today on the Government's clear and principled position regarding the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, what happened last night and the importance of international law. People from all over the world are disgusted, including Israelis living in Israel and other parts of the world. Ireland has consistently shown leadership internationally on these issues.”
“We will take more developments, but we cannot be treated in the same way as counties that have done very little or nothing up to this point. I am asking for the Taoiseach’s support with this.”
“There is growing concern about the proposed approach to the new renewable energy targets to be set by the Office of the Planning Regulator, which, in turn, has passed this job to the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, EMRA. These concerns extend to the possibility that the counties that have done the most could, effectively, be reset to zero, regardless of the progress already made. Offaly County Council was brave in 2009 to create a renewable energy policy in its development plan. Groups that have met with EMRA have raised concerns with me that existing renewable energy production may not be properly recognised. In the interests of fairness, counties like Offaly, which despite its small size, is already one of the leading producers of renewable energy in Ireland, should have their contributions to date fully taken into account.”
“While the tertiary courses are absolutely fantastic and brilliant, we would like to have an outreach in Offaly from somewhere like TUS that is providing third level education for people who want to participate in third level in their home towns to avoid the cost of having to pay for accommodation by moving away and avoid the cost of transport by travelling on a daily basis, and to make sure that we have that offering in Offaly in order that they do not have the burden of the extra costs.”
“Regional education provision is not just about access to courses. It is also about supporting balanced regional development and ensuring that talent can be trained within communities. Will the Minister of State outline how the Department is ensuring that regional institutions are properly resourced to compete, grow and respond to emerging skills needs, particularly in areas linked to technology apprenticeships and further workforce demands? How will the Department measure whether progress is genuinely being made in improving regional access to higher education over the coming years?”
“I welcome the important role being played by TUS and the work being done by LOETB. However, it is important to note that Offaly still has very limited direct access to third level education provision, although excellent work has been done locally through LOETB. I am passionate about improving the situation and ensuring that students and families in Offaly have greater access to opportunities. Will the Minister of State outline what additional investment is planned for our area?”
“I thank the Minister of State. Improving access to higher education in regional areas is critical, not just from an educational perspective, but also from a social and economic perspective. The Minister of State spoke about the great work that is being done by TUS and also Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board, LOETB, in its third level exploits in Offaly. Too often, students in regional counties face barriers that are less pronounced in larger urban centres. Cost-of-living pressures, accommodation shortages and travel distances can make access to higher education significantly more difficult for families. It is important that students feel they can pursue further and higher education opportunities without feeling they must leave their communities permanently in order to succeed.”
“The establishment of a veterinary course in Kildalton College is not just an educational development, but a boost for the entire Piltown-Kildalton region. Bringing 40 students into the area each year will have a tangible impact on local life and businesses. These students will live and study in, and become part of, the community. They will support local shops, accommodation providers and services that may have been struggling in recent years. This kind of steady, long-term presence brings the vitality and economic activity that rural areas truly need. At the same time, we are building a pipeline of skilled professionals who will go on to serve farms, clinics and industries across Ireland. It is a win for education and for the whole area. I compliment the Minister's team on the hard work they did to ensure this course happened.”
“The Minister's answer marks a hugely positive step forward for agriculture and animal healthcare in Ireland. The introduction of a veterinary course in Kildalton College offering 40 places each year is something that cannot be overstated in its importance. For too long, we have faced a serious shortage of qualified vets across the country. This has impacted farmers, the meat industry and even everyday pet owners who rely on timely and professional care for their animals. At the same time, many Irish students have had no choice but to travel abroad, often to countries like Poland, as the Minister mentioned, to pursue their dream of becoming veterinarians. Now, with these additional places here at home, we are not only strengthening our educational system, but also investing directly in the future of Irish agriculture and animal welfare.”