The Q2 2026 Economic Trends Survey of Cork Chamber members gathered insights into their experiences of doing business across April, May and June 2026.

Sponsored by PTSB, this edition of the Economic Trends survey also sought members’ views on Ireland's current security landscape.

71% of responding businesses expressed concern about Ireland’s security landscape, with geopolitical instability emerging as the most significant security concern for respondents. The threat of cyberattacks or data breaches, and energy supply disruption were also cited as significant concerns by respondents.

The majority of respondents reported investing in cybersecurity over the past year, with new software and systems, employee training and risk planning cited as the top three areas of investment. When it comes to barriers to improving cyber resilience, respondents reported the associated costs, as well as a lack of time, resources and expertise, as the most significant challenges.

Investment in asset resilience emerged as the key priority for respondents when it comes to government security measures, followed by a focus on the diversification of energy sources, and an emphasis on awareness and training. The importance of energy security to responding businesses is clear, with 63% expressing support for investment in alternative and renewable energy sources.