12. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the measures being taken by his Department to support the retail sector; the initiatives in place to assist small and independent retailers facing cost pressures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61547/25]

Sentiment score: 0.04

What additional supports is the Department considering to help small and medium enterprises to manage current cost pressures and restore business confidence and will he make a statement on the matter?

Sentiment score: 0.82

While Ireland's balance sheet looks good on paper and the country is doing well at the moment, some small- and medium-sized businesses, including in retail, are anxious. They are doing their best to keep their doors open, but margins are tight. All the schemes the Minister of State mentioned need a bit of investment from the businesses, which is just not there at the moment. Many tell me that they are not looking for handouts, but a bit of help to steady the ship, practical supports and clearer direction. Schemes like the power-up grant the Minister of State mentioned earlier made a real difference in the past. Will he outline what fresh supports or initiatives are being considered to help small businesses invest, grow and feel confident about the year ahead, particularly in rural counties such as Offaly where SMEs are the backbone of the local communities?

Sentiment score: 0.52

That is encouraging but it is not what I am hearing on the ground. The feedback that I am getting from business owners is that they often do not know where to start. The Minister of State mentioned the local enterprise offices, which do great work in County Offaly and other counties around the country. We need to make sure that people know about these places. Whether they are applying for funding, going digital or managing rising costs, this needs to be made clearer to them. Would the Minister of State consider developing a more hands-on, locally focused SME guidance programme where trained mentors or advisers could visit businesses directly, offer tailored advice and connect them quickly to the right grants or supports? That kind of practical, person-to-person guidance could make a real difference in helping SMEs to build confidence and plan ahead.

Sentiment score: 0.38

Will the Minister provide an update on the guidance and information he is providing to employers in relation to My Future Fund. Will he make a statement on the matter?

Sentiment score: 0.01

This is a significant reform. I acknowledge the work that the Minister and his Department have undertaken in developing My Future Fund. It represents a real step forward in helping workers to plan and save for their retirement. However, as with any major change, the real test will be how it is rolled out. We have had well-intentioned schemes in the past that began strongly but then faded from view, leaving uncertainty around what was required and how to comply. I know the Minister is conscious of that. Clear, consistent communication will be key. Employers need straightforward forward guidance, plain-language information and ongoing support as the system beds in. If My Future Fund remains simple, practical and easy to follow from the start, it will stand the test of time and deliver real value for both employees and those administering it on the ground.

Sentiment score: 0.21

I appreciate the Minister's commitment to ensuring that My Future Fund is implemented effectively. The focus now must be on consistency, keeping the guidance visible, practical and accessible beyond the initial roll-out. Regular updates through payroll providers and local enterprise offices and clear online resources will make a real difference in keeping the process smooth and understandable. With that continued engagement, I have every confidence that under the Minister's leadership, this reform can strike the right balance, strengthening long-term retirement savings for workers while ensuring the administrative side remains straightforward and workable for employees throughout the country.

Sentiment score: 0.53