Last week, we raised your main budget priorities and business needs with TDs from across the political spectrum at the Chamber Network Budget Dialogue in Dublin.

More affordable rental properties and housing, reduced childcare cost, tax reform and better public transport provision were among the key priorities raised with elected members from across the country by Cork Chamber.

With Budget 2019 also being the first following the finalisation of Project Ireland 2040 and the last budget before the UK leaves the EU, we emphasised the need for improving the competitiveness of Irish business to mitigate risks in the volatile period to come. Retaining VAT at 9% for the hospitality sector, delivering upon investments announced in the National Development Plan, and supporting entrepreneurship through a reformed tax system are all actions we raised on your behalf for the upcoming budget.