TU Dublin Economist Dr Emma Howard Chairs National Economic Dialogue Session with Minister Jack Chambers
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Dr Emma Howard, Lecturer in Economics at Technological University Dublin, played a leading role at the National Economic Dialogue 2026, serving as rapporteur and chairing one of the event's key breakout sessions alongside Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers T.D.
Held at Dublin Castle on 15 June, the National Economic Dialogue (NED) is the Government's principal forum for public consultation and discussion ahead of the annual Budget. The event brings together policymakers, academics, businesses, trade unions, community organisations and civil society to discuss Ireland's key economic and social priorities.
This year's Dialogue focused on the theme "Reforming now for a secure future: Putting Future Forty into practice," examining the long-term reforms needed to strengthen Ireland's economy and public services.
Dr Howard acted as rapporteur for the breakout session on "Maximising the Impact of Public Spending," chaired by Minister Jack Chambers. The session explored how public expenditure can deliver the greatest value for citizens while supporting sustainable economic growth and high-quality public services. As rapporteur, Dr Howard guided the discussion and presented its key insights during the afternoon plenary session, helping to inform wider debate across the Dialogue.
Dr Howard is a Lecturer in Economics at TU Dublin whose research focuses on behavioural economics and applied microeconomics, particularly in pro-environmental behaviour, gender equality, diversity, and inclusion. Before joining TU Dublin, she was an Economics Fellow at the University of Oxford and Mansfield College.
She is a member of the External Advisory Group for the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) and is the founder and co-chair of the Irish Economic Association's Behavioural Economics Network. She previously served as Chair of the Irish Society for Women in Economics from 2023 to 2026. Dr Howard's participation at the NED highlights TU Dublin's contribution to national policy discussions and demonstrates the University's commitment to providing research-informed expertise on the economic and societal challenges facing Ireland.
The NED is jointly hosted by the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation. While the event does not produce formal Budget recommendations, Dr Howard will write a summary note on her breakout session, which will be included in the overall Chair's report and published on the Department of Finance website. The NED provides an important forum for informed discussion and helps shape stakeholders' submissions ahead of Budget 2027.