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Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Jobs Minister Richard Bruton today announced the appointment of private sector figures to monitor the seven Action Plan for Jobs "Disruptive Reforms" - a series of measures with highly ambitious deadlines with the potential to have a significant effect on job creation.

The 6 Industry Partners are:

• Liam Casey: the founder and Chief Executive Officer of PCH International

• John Herlihy: Vice President, International SMB Sales and Head of Google Ireland

• Sean O’Driscoll: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Glen Dimplex Group

• Louise Phelan: Vice President of Global Operations Europe Middle East and Africa for PayPal

• Heather Reynolds: an owner and Director of Eishtec

• Dave Shanahan: Head of Strategic Health Initiatives worldwide in AbbVie.

Watch Minister Bruton's doorstep at the announcement today...

These partners will monitor the implemetation of the Disruptive Reforms, as well as delivering greater collaboration between the public and private sectors in delivering jobs. They will join the Action Plan for Jobs Implemetation and Monitoring Group, which is co-chaired by the Secretary Generals in the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Jobs. They will also be appointed to sit on a newly reconfigured National Competitiveness Council (NCC). 

The NCC will work with the Department of Jobs  in advising on the content of the “Building Competitive Advantage” section of future Action Plan for Jobs reports.

The Taoiseach said:

Getting Ireland working again is the top priority for the Government. Our Action Plan for Jobs is the driver behind many of the reforms underway to make Ireland more attractive and competitive for jobs and investment. This Government has always welcomed input and advice from Ireland’s entrepreneurs as we work together to create new jobs and grow our economy.

Minister Bruton said:

Working in partnership with experienced industry figures can only improve the roll-out of the Disruptive Reforms over the coming year. Their experience and perspective should prove invaluable as we take on these strategically significant challenges.