Government formation and Programme for Government discussions should focus on infrastructure delivery and trade.

As the final counts have concluded and the focus turns to Government formation, Chambers Ireland, the voice of business in Ireland, has urged all parties and elected TDs to prioritise the delivery of essential infrastructure and to focus on extending our trade portfolio. This was the message received at a meeting of Chamber Chief Executives from right across Ireland that has been taking place this week in Waterford.

Chambers Ireland, the business representative organisation that counts 37 Chambers of Commerce and 8,500 businesses across the country as members is asking for returning and newly-elected TDs to focus on infrastructure development as a fundamental priority. While the new Planning Act sets out to address flaws in Ireland’s planning system, there needs to be an urgent focus on minimising lengthy and complex approval processes, mitigating convoluted legal disputes and planning appeals, negating the inconsistent application of rules across the country, and ensuring better coordination between local and national authorities, all of which have led to significant delays, spiraling costs and investor uncertainty in the past.

Chambers Ireland also highlight that any incoming Government should be pro-trade and determined to increase market access for Irish businesses.

The meeting of Chamber Chief Executives has focused extensively on the outcome of the General Election and the pending Programme for Government talks that will evolve over the coming days and weeks. With each Chamber acting as the voice of local businesses, advocating for pro-business policies with Government, promoting investment and working to create a supportive environment for enterprises of all sizes, the network also collaborates extensively with their Local Authorities. They have additionally called for greater empowerment of Local Government to improve Ireland’s national delivery capabilities.

Speaking earlier today (5 December 2024), Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, Ian Talbot, said:

“As a business community, we need the Irish government to prioritise the development of essential infrastructure to ensure the future competitiveness and sustainability of our economy. Without more efficient development and delivery, we risk underdelivering on the housing, transport and energy needs that will underpin our economic progress and community wellbeing.”

“We have consistently highlighted on behalf of our members that housing shortages are one of the biggest barriers impeding SME recruitment and multinational worker mobility. In a recent European-wide survey of 42,000 businesses, conducted by Eurochambres with input from our business members, skills shortages were ranked as the second biggest issue facing businesses. To compete for international talent we need to improve the efficiency, transparency and responsiveness of the planning system as a necessary first step in unlocking our growth potential and delivering more homes.”

“We also need the next Government to stay focused on sustainable development and ensure that green infrastructure remains a priority. Energy security, harnessing our renewable power potential and investment in our ports will all be essential drivers of our economic growth and our climate targets.”

“A pro-trade approach is also essential for driving economic growth and securing our position in an increasingly competitive global market. Trade agreements open doors for businesses, create jobs and bring significant benefits to consumers. Any government committed to prosperity must prioritise ambitious and fair free trade deals.”

ENDS