Robert Troy TD
Minister of State for Financial Services, Credit Unions, and Insurance
Ireland’s financial services sector has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years, driven by the Government’s strategic initiative, Ireland for Finance.
Launched in 2019, the whole-of-Government Ireland for Finance strategy aims to position Ireland as a leading global hub for specialist international financial services. Employing over 60,000 people, with a quarter of those outside of Dublin, it is a key sector for the economy.
Ireland’s financial talent advantage
The broader financial services sector in Ireland employs well over 100,000 people, and one which I take significant pride in overseeing as Minister of State with Responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance.
Ireland’s talent pool is a cornerstone of its financial services success. The sector benefits from a highly educated workforce, bolstered by initiatives that expand access to in-demand skills like AI, data analytics, reg-tech, fintech and sustainable finance. The addition of internationally experienced professionals adds global perspectives, enriching the domestic talent landscape. The talent on offer from around the island is unmatched, and we will continue to promote this.
The financial services sector in Ireland
has proven itself already, and the
opportunity to come is even greater.
Agile regulation for fintech growth
A competitive and transparent regulatory environment is essential for sustaining this growth. Ireland’s regulatory infrastructure must support innovation, access and growth while maintaining its hard-earned supervisory reputation. We must match the pace of fast-moving sectors like AI and fintech with an appropriate regulatory approach. The Central Bank of Ireland plays a key role here, balancing its prudent oversight duty with agility in market development.
Future strategy for Irish finance
Looking ahead, the forthcoming iteration of Ireland for Finance, covering the period from 2026 to 2030, will build upon the successes of its predecessor. Our intention is to launch this new strategy in the first half of 2026. Over the coming months, I and officials in my Department will be engaging comprehensively with industry and consumers to shape what is a vital pathway for the future.
The path forward is clear: targeted investment, smarter regulation and active Government leadership. Global uncertainty will continue in the coming months, but the economies and sectors which will prosper beyond that are those that can be agile and decisive. The financial services sector in Ireland has proven itself already, and the opportunity to come is even greater.
