An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris and the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation Jack Chambers are today hosting theNational Economic Dialogue 2026which will take place in Dublin Castle.

The Dialogue is a central part of the budgetary process and preparation forBudget 2027.  The theme this year is “Reforming now for a secure future: putting Future Forty into practice”.

Participants will consider what actions can be prioritised now to address long-term challenges and get on the right path to future economic prosperity.

The Department of Finance has produced a short scene-setter for discussions which is attached

The Dialogue will encourage engaging conversations, from managing safe public finances and prioritising reform, to maximising the impact of public spending across a range of areas such as agriculture, social protection and disability, while addressing key challenges including competitiveness, housing and the transition to a lower carbon economy.

Representatives from the voluntary sector, businesses, unions, and research institutes will be in attendance at the Dialogue in addition to members from Cabinet and the Committee on Budgetary Oversight.

Speaking at Dublin Castle, An Taoiseach said:

“Dublin Castle will play an important role in staging Ireland’s Presidency over the coming months. It is fitting that just before we step up to that important leadership role that we gather here today with key stakeholders at national level to prepare the next steps for Budget 2027. Our economy has proved resilient, but Ireland is adjusting to a world that is fragmenting in geopolitical terms. Participants from across society will engage directly with Ministers to consider how we can best use the resources available, what we should prioritise and how we prepare for future challenges now.”

An Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris T.D. said:

“The National Economic Dialogue comes at an important moment as we begin preparations for Budget 2027 and consider how best to respond to the opportunities and challenges facing our country.

“While the international environment remains uncertain, Ireland’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience and strength.

“Today’s discussions will focus on what we can be doing today to ensure we put ourselves on the right footing for the years ahead in the context of longer-term structural challenges.

“I value the contributions and suggestions that are put forward by the participants of the Dialogue and look forward to engaging with my Government colleagues on the issues raised in the Dialogue today.

“Budget 2027 provides us with an important opportunity to build on our strong economic progress by supporting workers and families, enhancing competitiveness and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared across society.”

The Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service, Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers T.D. said:

“The National Economic Dialogue is an important moment in our annual budgetary calendar. It provides a valuable opportunity for an open and inclusive exchange of views on the competing priorities facing Government.

“I particularly welcome this year’s focus on reform, which is essential to ensuring that public spending delivers tangible outcomes for the people of Ireland. This means strengthening value for money, improving how we allocate and manage resources and ensuring that investment — particularly in infrastructure and public services — supports sustainable growth and builds resilience for the years ahead.

“My priority is to ensure that we deliver better outcomes through smarter, more effective spending. By embedding reform and maintaining a medium-term perspective, we can build a more resilient, productive and secure economy for future generations.”