Budget 2026 and Competitiveness: Navigating Uncertainty (competitiveness.ie)

• Fiscal discipline and adherence to national spending rule recommended
• VAT reduction for hospitality opposed; targeted relief preferred
• Reform of National Training Fund and increased public R&D investment urged

"The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council advises fiscal restraint and adherence to Ireland's national spending rule to safeguard public finances amid global uncertainty. The Council recommends prioritizing productivity-enhancing investments, particularly in infrastructure and lifelong learning, over consumption. It also cautions against a VAT reduction for the hospitality sector, which would cost €626 million annually, as the sector has already recovered."