Budget 2027 delivers welcome progress on a number of priorities for Cork and for business, but it also leaves important competitiveness challenges unresolved.
There are positive measures across infrastructure, skills, enterprise and childcare, alongside important commitments to Cork’s transport infrastructure. We are particularly encouraged to see progress on a number of issues that Cork Chamber has consistently raised with Government.
However, the Budget is a missed opportunity to do more to address the cost burden facing business. Continued action is also needed on housing, energy, infrastructure delivery and the wider conditions that enable businesses to invest and grow.
Over recent months, we have maintained a sustained programme of engagement across Government, ensuring that the priorities of Cork businesses are represented at the highest levels of decision-making. This has included direct engagement with the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris, Minister Jack Chambers, other Ministers, senior Government officials, elected representatives and State agencies. The priorities we bring to these discussions are shaped by what we hear from you, our Chamber Partners, and our wider membership.
Further detail on many of today’s measures will emerge over the coming days, and we will remain closely engaged with Government as these are developed and implemented.
As always, I value your perspective and welcome any issues or priorities you would like us to bring forward through that engagement.
