National Reform Programme 2020

The National Reform Programme is an important element of the European Semester process - the annual post-crisis cycle of enhanced economic and fiscal policy coordination at EU level.

Each Semester is set in train by the publication in November by the Commission of the Annual Growth Survey which identifies economic priorities for Member States for the period ahead.

In April, Ireland, like other Member States, submits its National Reform Programme to the European Commission, in conjunction with a Stability Programme Update.

The National Reform Programme, which is coordinated by the Department of the Taoiseach with input from relevant Departments and agencies, provides an overview of policy actions underway, including in response to Country Specific Recommendations given to Ireland as part of the preceding year's European Semester process.

As the process of forming a new Government has not been completed, this year’s Programme is a “no change policy” document, and does not contain any new commitments or policies. A short summary of the national response to COVID-19 is included, with a particular focus on the economic and labour market aspects.

Stakeholder engagement is considered an important part of the process. Input and views are welcomed from a wide range of stakeholders.

Together with the Stability Programme Update, the National Reform Programme helps to inform the Commission’s approach to drafting Country Specific Recommendations for Ireland for the coming year.

The Commission presents its proposals for Country Specific Recommendations (CSRs) in May/June for the following 12-18 months.

These policy recommendations are then discussed between Member States and are endorsed by the European Council in June.