This will unleash opportunities which catapult us on to the world stage and empower us to compete as an international location of substance with some of the best second tier cities on the globe. We should not put ourselves in a position where our relative competiveness is not optimised, so retaining the status quo is not a feasible option.

Cork Chamber strongly endorses the committee's recommendation to establish a strong metropolitan division at the core of the unified authority, as the optimal solution for Cork. An expanded Metropolitan area will be the key driver of economic growth into the future, which will maximise the benefits for all. In particular, the proposal to introduce a specific and enhanced economic development portfolio is also a very positive step

With Cork now recommended to assume the position of the largest local authority in the State and with specific recommendations regarding the devolution of power in the future, we now need to seize this opportunity to innovate for Cork, take the necessary risks and transform 21st century local government within our exceptional region in the months and years ahead.