Chambers Ireland Network Delivers Unified Message on Infrastructure Delivery for Budget 2026

24 September 2025 

Chambers Ireland today launched its pre-budget submission reflecting the shared priorities of affiliated Chambers of Commerce around the country. 

Calling on the Government to take decisive and long-term action, President Margaret Considine highlighted the need for urgency: 

“Our economy continues to grow but essential infrastructure has not kept up with the rapidly rising demand. Few could have anticipated today’s economic resilience given the challenges of the past two decades, yet insufficient infrastructure delivery now poses a real threat to our ongoing prosperity. Our network is united in saying that closing this gap is vital and if we fail to act, then we risk entering a period of managed decline.” 

The submission stresses that while the housing crisis remains front and centre, it has overshadowed other fundamental service shortfalls particularly in energy, public transport, water and wastewater treatment. 

Chief Executive Ian Talbot said: 

“The era of being able to tolerate delays caused by lengthy planning challenges, judicial reviews and other hurdles is over. Discussion of the impact on future generations has now been overtaken by the impact on the current generation. Each delay also increases both the pressure and the ultimate cost. We need a whole-of-Government and State Agency approach that uses every lever available including tax incentives and legislative change to accelerate the delivery of vital infrastructure and housing.” 

He drew attention to the State’s competitiveness amid global uncertainty, driven by protectionist policies, tariffs and the mounting impact of climate change: 

“The State’s strong financial position presents a real opportunity to invest in essential infrastructure and revitalise our towns and cities. With the right decisions we can lay the foundation for a more sustainable economy and give businesses the certainty they need to invest and stay competitive. 

Climate goals and energy security must remain central to the upcoming Budget. The Sustainable Development Goals continue to guide the Chamber Network as we work to balance our economic ambition with environmental responsibility. 

Economic growth and job creation are being constrained at a time of great opportunity to lead on sustainable growth and embrace new opportunities. We must now act with urgency.” 

Some key recommendations include: 

  • A commitment to multiannual funding in water and wastewater treatment infrastructure. 
  • Continued investment in transport networks. 
  • Grid reinforcement and upgrades. 
  • Increased housing targets and investment in housing. 
  • Initiatives to stimulate Modern Methods of Construction. 
  • Support for developing port infrastructure. 
  • The introduction of a Strategic Capital Investment Scheme to support large scale, high growth projects across key sectors. 
  • Expansion and acceleration of non-domestic retrofitting supports. 
  • Further investment in childcare. 
  • Increased funding for apprenticeships. 
  • Facilitating SME engagement in International Trade. 

– ENDS- 

Notes for the Editor: 

Chambers Ireland’s pre-budget submission is available here – LINK. 

Our recommendations are organised in terms of the Sustainable Development Goals. We have outlined these in the following terms: 

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – SDG 9 

  • Planning Reform 
  • Essential Infrastructure Investment 
  • Transport Networks 
  • Fostering Innovation

Sustainable Cities and Communities – SDG 11 

  • Housing Development 
  • Optimise Building Stock 
  • Modern Methods of Construction 
  • Vibrant Cohesive Communities 

Climate Action – SDG 13 

  • Energy Security 
  • Renewable Energy Generation 
  • Decarbonisation 

Gender Equality – SDG 5 

  • Childcare 
  • Enabling Equality 

Decent Work and Economic Growth – SDG 8 

  • Developing & Attracting Talent 
  • Business Supports 
  • Trade 

For further information contact shane.hughes@chambers.ie. 

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