I welcome today’s announcement that Leopardstown-based SSE is to become the first large business in Ireland to become a ‘living wage’ employer. From New Year’s Day, the energy utility will guarantee to pay all its employees at least €11.50 an hour.
Recently I met with Helen and Des Fox in Broadford, Ballinteer. Their participation in the Better Energy Homes scheme allowed them to undertake energy efficiency improvements
I campaigned against the eighth amendment to the constitution in 1983, and I look forward to the day it is repealed.
Today I welcomed a new €500,000 Enterprise Ireland Competitive Start Fund, which will help ambitious business women to start new enterprises.
Minister for Communications Alex White today (Wednesday) said the announcement that the Six Nations Rugby Championship will continue to be broadcast live on a free-to-air terrestrial TV channel until 2021 was a positive development, which he would take into account when considering the future designation of the tournament.
I urge local primary and post-primary schools to apply to the latest Summer Works Scheme, which opened today, before the November 27th deadline.
A total of €40 million is being made available for the scheme next year. It funds small and medium scale building works such as gas, electrical and mechanical works, roof and window upgrades, and structural improvements.
Today I welcomed the announcement that Aer Lingus is to operate three new US routes from next year, creating over 200 jobs for pilots, cabin crew and ground staff.
Today I welcomed the announcement that Sage is to employ 300 people in a new headquarters in Sandyford. Sage is the world’s leading small business accounting, payments and payroll solutions provider.
Today I officially opened St Colmcille’s National School in Knocklyon, Dublin 16. The state-of-the-art school serves 1,600 pupils and employs 80 teachers, 23 special needs assistants and 11 ancillary staff.
I want to start by acknowledging the critical part that Irish business has performed – and continues to perform – in the sustainable recovery that our country is now experiencing.
In doing so, I also want to share some thoughts about the relationship between business – particularly SMEs – and the State. Because I believe that our continued economic success depends, in large part, on the Government supporting and driving innovation throughout the economy. This is in addition to its traditional role of providing the environment, infrastructure and public services that businesses need if they are to enjoy sustained success.
