THE TAOISEACH has held a meeting with regulators of key sectors to emphasise his views that the regulated sectors can increase their efficiencies.
Enda Kenny convened what was described as a “Cabinet-level” meeting at Government Buildings yesterday which was attended by Ministers as well as the heads of four key regulatory agencies, including Financial Regulator Matthew Elderfield.
In a statement last night, the Government said the meeting was held to examine how major sectors such as financial services, energy, transport and communications could contribute to stronger economic recovery.
Those on the Government side included Minister for Finance Michael Noonan; Minister for Enterprise Richard Bruton; and Minister for Communications Pat Rabbitte. Other regulators who attended were Alex Chisholm and Mike Byrne from the Commission for Communications Regulation; Dermot Nolan and Garrett Blaney from the Commission for Energy Regulation; and Bob Collins and Michael O’Keeffe from the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.
The statement said: “The meeting focused on ways to promote greater efficiency in the regulated industries so as to reduce the costs of services to enterprises and consumers. It also examined the incentives and prospects for investment and innovation in key sectors, and the potential for enhanced job creation.”
Mr Kenny said “there was a clear acceptance by all present of the need to do everything we can to stimulate investment in infrastructure and innovation in the regulated areas”.
