Irish Funds Advocates for a Fairer Retail Investment Framework for People in Ireland

The proposed Personal Investment Account is a welcome step towards addressing the barriers that discourage people in Ireland from investing. But reform must also be fair to those who already invest in ETFs and other funds.

Andrea Kelly, Chair of Irish Funds, has spoken to the Business Post and the Irish Independent, calling for the removal of Ireland’s deemed disposal regime through the Finance Bill 2026 rather than postponing changes until 2028 or beyond.

Kelly noted that the Government’s Funds Sector 2030 Review has already recommended the removal of deemed disposal and highlighted that implementing the change would demonstrate policy consistency and strengthen Ireland’s international reputation.

Kelly also highlighted that the design of the new Personal Investment Account should avoid creating two classes of savers. Introducing preferential tax arrangements within the new account structure while maintaining existing rules for investments held outside it could effectively create two categories of investors.

She spoke of the need for greater clarity from policymakers on how the Personal Investment Account will operate and said full details of the scheme should be published well in advance of the Budget process, allowing investment providers and financial institutions adequate time to prepare products and systems to support the new framework.

A simpler and fairer system can support greater retail participation, strengthen long-term financial resilience and help build a stronger culture of investment in Ireland.