Measures to foster increased competitiveness through reducing costs and improving productivity are included in the four-year Government plan published today.
In addition to reducing the national minimum wage by €1 to €7.65 and overhauling welfare and labour market polices, the Government has laid out a number of steps to improve competitiveness in a number of industry sectors.
The Government says that there has been a "sustained" improvement in competitiveness over the past two years, but that further action is required, particularly in waste management, telecommunications, energy, transport, professional services and public administration.
The measures include a package aimed at reducing legal costs and a review to eliminate anomalies in the framework Registered Employment Agreements (REAs) and Employment Regulation Orders (ERO) within three months.
The Government intends to extend the 15-day prompt payment rule to the wider public sector, overhaul the Business Expansion Scheme and review current bankruptcy legislation.
Significant funding is to be provided through Government agencies to support research and development (R&D), particularly in areas such as the Green economy and the agri-food sectors.
Further investment in R&D/third-level sector collaborations is also promised as is the roll-out of 100 megabit internet connections to second level schools around the country.
Major waste infrastructure will continue to be developed primarily by the private sector while public investment in recycling infrastructure will be maintained.
In terms of tourism, the four-year plan includes a measure to liberalise visa regulations for visitors from long-haul regions.
Additionally, increased use of tendering by the State and a measure to cut public sector rents by 15 per cent are promised.
