7. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his assessment of the impact recent international tariff changes are having on the Irish economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64103/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Like my colleague Deputy Brennan, I wish the Tánaiste the best with his new portfolio and look forward to working with him.

Sentiment score: 0.86

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Tánaiste. Our economy has shown remarkable resilience in recent years and Irish exports have held up strongly despite global tariff uncertainties. That is a credit to our businesses. However, SMEs and retailers are operating on very tight margins and tariff-linked increases in import costs risk eroding their competitiveness on the ground. Will the Tánaiste outline what steps his Department can take to support SMEs and retail businesses in managing tariff-related cost pressures in order that they can remain competitive, protect jobs and continue contributing so strongly to Ireland’s economic performance?

Sentiment score: 0.33

One area feeling the impact of tariffs more directly is the Irish whiskey sector. Irish Distillers, Tullamore Dew and other smaller whiskey producers are paying higher tariff rates in the American market than Scotch producers while American bourbon enters the EU with no equivalent tariff. Irish whiskey is an export success story and a major employer across rural Ireland. Will the Tánaiste work closely with our EU partners to secure improved tariff conditions for Irish spirits so brands like Tullamore Dew can compete fairly and continue to grow on the world stage?

Sentiment score: 0.30