-
Monday, September 11, 2023Ongar-Barnhill Road Brings New Opportunity to Area
Fingal County Council has appointed BAM Civil Ltd. as contractor for the construction of the Ongar Barnhill Road with the sod-turning happening on Friday. The Ongar-Barnhill Road in Dublin 15 is a long-standing objective of Fingal County Council. This new high quality transportation corridor will significantly improve accessibility for sustainable and active travel modes in this fast-growing area. It will also support Fingal’s ongoing commitment to supporting the provision of new homes by providing new
Monday, September 11, 2023Business Users Support Scheme For Kerosene
The Government has launched a new scheme for businesses that were impacted by significant increases in the cost of Kerosene during 2022. The Business Users Support Scheme for Kerosene (BUSSK) will compensate eligible businesses for 50% of the increased cost of Kerosene purchased for heating their business premises during the period from 1st March to 31st December 2022, compared to the average retail price for the same period in 2021. There will be a guaranteed minimum subsidy payment of €500. Businesses
Tuesday, August 08, 2023Chambers Ireland urges Government to ensure that Budget 2024 is focused on our long-term goals
Chambers Ireland, the voice of business throughout Ireland, today (8th August 2023) calls for Budget 2024 to be focused on our long-term challenges. For the first time in five years, Government will be creating their budget without being under the shadow of an immediate impending crisis. Ireland has, since Brexit, been navigating an uncertain world with un-anticipatable crises impacting us in successive years. At last, Budget 2024, is being drafted during a period of relative calm. Government parties
Friday, April 21, 2023Enabling works commence for new Civic and Cultural Centre in Swords
Contractors moved on site this week to commence enabling works for the new Civic and Cultural Centre in Swords which, when built, will deliver a new library, theatre, gallery and arts spaces for the town. Over the next few months, the contractors will prepare the site, which is the former Fingal County Council car-park at the junction of North Street and Seatown Road, for the arrival of the main construction contractor at the beginning of next year. The current works involve underground and overground
Tuesday, March 07, 2023Chambers Ireland Statement on “Current Challenges for SMEs” in the Oireachtas Enterprise Committee
Speaking at the Joint Oireachtas Enterprise Trade and Employment Committee this morning (1/3/2023) Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot, said: “Businesses are fit for growth, but they are constrained by the lack of talent, the lack of housing, the lack of infrastructure. The greatest challenge that our members face is the lack of available talent which is driven by affordable and appropriate housing being unavailable across most of the country. “We are growing as an economy, but we are not
Tuesday, February 28, 2023Fingal Chamber welcomes Northern Ireland Protocol announcement and calls on all stakeholders to support it
Speaking after the announcement Anthony Cooney, Chief Executive of Fingal Chamber, said: “The announcement today on the Northern Ireland protocol is a significant step forward in regularising and strengthening the economic relationship between the United Kingdom and the EU, while also maximising economic opportunities across the island of Ireland. Removing the uncertainty that businesses have faced, notwithstanding the Trade and Cooperation agreement signed on 30 December 2020, should facilitate growth by
Thursday, February 16, 2023Chambers Ireland welcomes announcement of the St. Patrick’s Day ministerial missions
Speaking on 14 February 2023, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We warmly welcome the 2023 St Patrick’s Day Programme, which will see extensive international engagement to promote Ireland as a place to live, work, trade and invest in. Over the past few years our economy has faced, and continues to face numerous geopolitical challenges beyond our control. It is vital we develop friendships and partnerships in different global markets to showcase Ireland as an outstanding place to do
Monday, February 13, 2023Hundreds of Events Announced for Local Enterprise Week 2023
Small businesses and budding entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to sample hundreds of events helping them to start or grow their business as part of this year’s Local Enterprise Week. The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, supported by Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, takes place from the 6th-10th March this year across the country. While there are hundreds of events taking place, there are 5 National Spotlight events that are available for free online, with one taking place
Thursday, February 09, 2023NTA Award €17.11m Funding to Fingal Active Travel Projects
Fingal County Council has welcomed the announcement by the Department of Transport, of €17.11m in funding, which has been granted to 52 Active Travel projects across Fingal. The Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has confirmed that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has allocated these funds as part of an overall €290 million to be spent on 1,200 on walking and cycling infrastructure projects across Ireland this year. Projects to receive funding in Fingal include Safer Routes to School spread across
Wednesday, December 21, 2022Chambers Ireland strongly supports the increased ambition of the Climate Action Plan 2023
Chambers Ireland strongly supports the increased ambition of the Climate Action Plan 2023 Speaking today 21after the release of the Climate Action Plan 2023, Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland’s Chief Executive said: “Putting our Climate Action Plan on a statutory footing is an important move by government, and the fixing of legally binding targets for individual departments is another essential move. “Chambers Ireland are strong supporters of the Sustainable Development Goals, and Climate Action is one that
Thursday, October 13, 2022Fingal Councillors approve Council’s €989m Capital Programme
Councillors have approved Fingal County Council’s €989m three-year Capital Programme which provides for significant investment on projects across the County during period from 2023 to 2025. It represents a €205m increase on the previous Capital Plan with the 2023-2025 programme identifying 266 individual projects with an estimated spend of €988,990,218 over the three years. The Programme projects a capital spend in 2023 of €269m, followed by €354m in 2024 and a further €366m in 2025. Around 55% of the
Friday, September 30, 2022Fingal Chamber: “MetroLink Planning application is great news”
Fingal Chamber strongly welcomes Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s application to An Bord Pleanála for planning permission for the MetroLink. Metrolink is a keystone project for the development of Dublin. MetroLink will open up large parts of Fingal for the development of truly sustainable communities which are built around easy, speedy and clean transport options. MetroLink will allow commuter towns in North Dublin to grow without increasing traffic on the roads to the city centre. Projects such as
Tuesday, September 27, 2022Fingal Chamber urges Government to ensure that Budget 2023 is flexible
Fingal Chamber, the voice of business throughout Fingal, today (27th September 2022) warns that Budget 2023 must be flexible. Government needs to be able to respond quickly, and where needed, to the impact of the escalating energy and inflation crisis. While the immediate effects of energy costs are significant, the knock-on effect will raise challenges. Where large employers move to shorter working weeks, we are likely to see a large impact on disposable income, something that is particularly likely to
Tuesday, September 27, 2022Higher investment in Irish economy welcomed, but delivery is critical.
Budget 2023 represents a huge response to the crisis from the government, however, whether the increases are focused enough to ensure delivery remains an open question. In the context of a budget that is focused on cost-of-living struggles, Fingal Ireland welcomes the business-focused elements and the enormous investment in the economy this represents. The principal concerns of the Chambers Ireland network as we approached #Budget2023 were Energy, Housing, and Talent. Energy Policies like the
Friday, September 02, 2022Chambers Ireland says ‘blame game’ is not a useful response to the energy crisis
Chambers Ireland says ‘blame game’ is not a useful response to the energy crisis. Following the publication of the Chambers Ireland Submission to the CRU regarding Network Tariff proposals, Chambers Ireland Head of Policy, Shane Conneely said: “The current ‘blame game’ is not useful – it is wider society, and the business community in particular, that is likely to bear the consequences of past strategic errors. “With such a widespread, externally induced, price shock hitting our economy it is likely
Saturday, August 27, 2022Chambers Ireland warns a flexible Budget 2023 is needed in response to inflation crisis
Chambers Ireland, the voice of business throughout Ireland, warns that Budget 2023 must be flexible if Government is to respond quickly, and where needed, to the impact of the escalating energy and inflation crisis. All parties should ensure that neither the Budget nor the ongoing pay talks accelerate the externally induced inflation shock through fuelling domestic inflationary pressures. Speaking in advance of renewed public sector pay negotiations, and in the wake of further domestic and commercial
Thursday, July 28, 2022Chambers Ireland Launches Budget 2023 Submission
There are three principal areas which Chambers Ireland has identified the government to focus on:HousingSkills & TalentEnergy Speaking at the launch of their Submission for Budget 2023, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, said “For our members there are three interlocking struggles which businesses in Ireland are facing: Housing, talent, and energy dominate the conversations of businesses throughout the county. “Many of the problems we are experiencing arose from the decade of underinvestment
.jpg)
Monday, March 07, 2022150 new solar powered compactable smart bins to be installed across Fingal
More solar bins will be installed around the streets of Swords, Balbriggan, Castleknock and Mulhuddart after Fingal County Council confirmed it had ordered 150 of the compactable smart bins to help keep the towns litter free and drive down carbon emissions. An initial order of 100 bins will be installed by April, with the remaining 50 bins to be installed by the end of summer. The bins will be situated in areas with high footfall, such as towns and coastal areas. Area Inspectors will identify
Friday, February 04, 2022Fingal publishes latest progress report on its efforts to tackle climate change across the county
The second Annual Progress Report on Fingal County Council’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) has been published, setting out how it will cut half of the County’s emissions by 2030 and in doing so help Ireland to reach net zero no later than 2050. First published in 2019, the CCAP sets out 130 actions across five themes that the council will take to tackle climate change for each sector of Fingal’s economy. One of the key platforms in the plan is the overall improvement of energy
Wednesday, January 26, 2022Further resourcing of planning authorities welcomed by Chambers Ireland
Speaking after the launch of the Housing for All Q4 Progress Report today, 26 January 2022, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, welcomed the announcement of further resourcing of planning authorities across the country, and said, ‘The expansion of resources for An Bord Pleanála will be key to delivering the ambitious housing targets in “Housing for All” and they are also of the utmost importance for ensuring that the infrastructural investment in our National Development Plan can be built
Monday, January 24, 2022Fingal Chamber welcomes easing of restrictions
Fingal Chamber, the voice of business in Fingal, has welcomed the announcement by Government to ease the public health restrictions which will provide businesses across Ireland an opportunity to reach their full potential. Following the announcement by An Taoiseach, Fingal Chamber Chief Executive Anthony Cooney said: “The decision by Government today will come as a relief to the many business owners across Ireland who have played a crucial role in navigating the threat posed by Covid-19. Through several
Monday, January 24, 2022Government Announces An End To Restrictions
Friday January 22, 2022, saw the announcement by Government of an end to most of the restrictions put in place because of the necessary public health measures responding to the pandemic. The move by Government to withdraw the majority of restrictions will come as welcomed news and signals a return to normalcy, long anticipated by the majority of people. As of today Monday, January 24, 2022, a return to physical attendance in the workplace can commence which means that Employers must now decide how this
Thursday, January 20, 2022Government announces additional Public Holidays
Following a number of discussions and much speculation the Government has made the long-awaited announcement of additional public holidays.Once-off Public Holiday The first announcement outlined the provision of a once-off public holiday which will take place on Friday March 18, 2022. According to the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar, the designation of this once-off public holiday is in recognition of the efforts of the general public, volunteers and all workers
Friday, January 14, 2022Fingal Community Groups invited to apply for Community Activities Funding
Community and voluntary groups in Fingal are invited to apply for funding under the 2022 Community Activities Fund. The Community Activities Fund (CAF) is a once-off fund that provides grants to assist community and voluntary groups with facilities upgrades, equipment purchase and running costs. The CAF is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development with Fingal allocated €301,042 in funding for groups across the county. It was launched before Christmas at a national level by the Minister
Thursday, January 13, 2022Carbon budgets needed for Ireland to achieve climate targets, says Chambers Ireland
Chambers Ireland, the voice of business throughout Ireland, has said that carbon budgets must become a fundamental component of decision-making within public bodies if Ireland is to achieve its climate targets. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, was speaking to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action today. State decisions play a crucial role in facilitating businesses and the public to engage in climate-friendly behaviours, Talbot said. However successive
Tuesday, December 07, 2021Employees & Covid-19 vaccine – considerations for employers
Michelle McDonagh, Chamber Partner Manager, Adare Human Resource Management With the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccine booster now underway and the emergency of another new variant, it is worth reminding employers on what they can and cannot do when it comes to vaccines and their employees. Provide a safe workplace Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, it is the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe working environment for employees, so it is not unreasonable that an employer
Friday, December 03, 2021Businesses need legislative certainty on Covid-19 supports before Dáil Christmas recess, says Chambers Ireland
Businesses need legislative certainty on Covid-19 supports before Dáil Christmas recess, says Chambers Ireland Chambers Ireland, the voice of business throughout Ireland, is concerned about the challenges businesses are experiencing due to coronavirus uncertainties. In light of the reintroduction of restrictions, it is clear that we are not in the recovery scenario that underpinned Government decision-making regarding Covid-19, and Budget 2022. However, above-profile Exchequer returns demonstrate how
Tuesday, November 23, 2021Oversight Board Chair and Deputy Chair elected as push to boost economy between Dublin and Belfast gains momentum
A new cross-border partnership established to foster economic growth along the key strategic route between Dublin and Belfast has today announced its inaugural political leadership team who will help drive employment opportunities, address barriers impacting trade and encourage the delivery of better transport infrastructure. Cllr Pete Byrne from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in Northern Ireland was elected as Chair of the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) Oversight Board, a body made up
Tuesday, November 02, 2021Employers encouraged to continue to allow Employee work from home
On 19th October, the Government gave its latest update on the lifting of Covid-19 related restrictions. It had been hoped that all restrictions would be lifted on Friday, 22nd October but due to the ongoing high number of people getting infected, some of these restrictions have been put on hold. So what does this mean for employers and employees? An Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar has said that a full return to workplaces may not be possible until next Spring. Public health advice is that employees should be
Tuesday, October 12, 2021Budget 2022: Skillnet Ireland welcomes investment in talent
Skillnet Ireland, a business support agency of the Government of Ireland, has welcomed the focus on talent within Budget 2022 and the Government’s decision to increase its funding allocation for 2022. Today’s budget saw Skillnet Ireland receive total exchequer funding of €42 million for 2022 through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. As the economy recovers, investment in talent development remains vital in preparing businesses for future challenges including
Tuesday, October 12, 2021Chambers Ireland welcomes Budget 2022 but critical issue of town centres and vacancies has yet to be tackled
Chambers Ireland, the voice of business throughout Ireland, has welcomed the Government’s focus on capital investment, childcare, and remote working in Budget 2022. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland CEO Ian Talbot said: Business Supports “Chambers Ireland welcomes the Government’s commitment to supporting businesses throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. This has secured jobs, prevented permanent closures and provided an opportunity for the country to recover more quickly than anticipated. Our
Wednesday, September 22, 2021Chambers Ireland calls for accelerated action on the SDGs during 76th UN General Assembly
Along with Heads of State, Chief Executives, and social and business leaders, Chambers Ireland joined the UN Global Compact’s ‘Uniting Business Live’ summit at the 76th UN General Assembly and called for greater ambition and accelerated action on the SDGs ahead of COP26. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot outlined the importance of SMEs to future economic growth and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals: “Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) account for an
Monday, September 13, 2021Skillnet Ireland welcomes increase in Government funding in Budget 2021 to help businesses recover from impact of Covid-19 pandemic
Skillnet Ireland, a business support agency of the Government of Ireland, has welcomed the Government’s decision to increase its funding allocation by 15% in Budget 2021. The agency has received total funding for 2021 of €41 million in today’s budget through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. Skillnet Ireland operates on a cost sharing basis with industry; the total investment in upskilling by Skillnet Ireland in 2021 is likely to exceed €60 million when
Wednesday, August 18, 2021Event Programme is launched for Dublin Climate Action Week, taking place from 13th to 19th September
The event programme and online registration have launched for Dublin’s first Climate Action Week (DCAW21), taking place from Monday 13th to Sunday 19th September 2021. A range of online and in-person climate action events are now open for registration at www.dublinclimateactionweek.ie. The broad range of events address the theme areas of Energy & Buildings, Transport, Flood Resilience, Nature Based Solutions, Resource Management and Citizen Engagement. The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Friday, August 13, 2021Fingal Towns and Villages to benefit from new Streetscape Enhancement funding from the Department of Rural & Community Development
Fingal County Council has been awarded €260,000 in funding by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the new Town and Village Streetscape Enhancement Scheme 2021. This Scheme is providing €7 million nationally as part of Our Rural Future, a five-year strategy to revitalise rural Ireland and make our rural towns and villages more vibrant and attractive places to live, work and visit. The funding aims to support the upgrade of shopfronts and building facades and the enhancement of streets
Friday, June 18, 2021Council elects new Mayor and Deputy Mayor for 2021/22
Councillor Seána Ó Rodaigh of the Labour Party was elected as Mayor of Fingal at the annual meeting of Fingal County Council which was held today at the Grand Hotel, Malahide. Cllr Daniel Whooley of the Green Party was elected as Deputy Mayor. Cllr Ó Rodaigh won a vote against Cllr Joan Hopkins (Social Democrats) and Cllr Punam Rane (Fine Gael) in the election for Mayor while Cllr Whooley overcame Cllr Natalie Treacy (Sinn Fein) in the election for Deputy Mayor. Cllr Ó Rodaigh, who represents the
.jpg)
Wednesday, June 16, 2021Fingal County Council to participate in Dublin Climate Action Week this September
The first Dublin Climate Action Week (#DCAW21), will take place from Monday, September 13 to Sunday, September 19, and is being planned to demonstrate the ongoing efforts, ambitions and the collaborative approach of the four Dublin local authorities, in addressing climate action. The week is being organised and delivered by the partnership of Fingal County Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, South Dublin County Council, Dublin City Council, Codema – Dublin’s Energy Agency and the Dublin
Tuesday, June 01, 2021Expansion of the Rural LEADER Programme in Dublin has been announced
Rural Communities and Enterprises in Dublin have received a major boost with the announcement that the geographical area eligible for funding under the LEADER Programme has been significantly expanded. LEADER is an EU funded programme administered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) and supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development. The main aim of LEADER is to strengthen the rural economy and to improve the quality of life in rural areas. LEADER focuses on the key principles of innovation,
Friday, May 28, 2021Sustained support and stimulus for local economies must be at centre of Recovery Plan, says Chambers
Ahead of an announcement on the further reopening of society and economic activity, Chambers Ireland is today (28 May 2021) calling on Government to ensure businesses are given the best opportunity to succeed by publishing clear timelines for summer reopening, extending supports to the end of 2021 and providing an additional stimulus for towns and cities. We also ask for a long-term strategy to support the tourism and hospitality sectors. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot
.jpg)
Tuesday, April 20, 2021Fingal Chamber calls for Government to advance Ireland’s Aviation Restart Plan 2021 without delay
Anthony Cooney, Chief Executive Officer, Fingal Chamber said:“The implementation of an exit strategy from the current Covid-19 restrictions is urgent and critical for the aviation sector. Such actions are required to re-open and re-establish our international connectivity and ensure that the economy is supported to deliver the recovery that will be vital for the country. Connectivity is hugely important for Ireland, as it is one of the world’s most open economies. It supports jobs and important economic
Thursday, April 15, 2021Aer Lingus calls on Government to finalise and facilitate implementation of Ireland's Aviation Restart Plan
Aer Lingus today called on Government to urgently facilitate the implementation of Ireland’s Aviation Restart Plan 2021. Donal Moriarty, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Aer Lingus said: “The need for a data-driven, risk-based Irish roadmap to reopen international travel is urgent. This will enable the restoration of connectivity and ensure that the economy is supported to deliver the recovery that will be vital for the country. “With the publication of Ireland’s Aviation Restart Plan today by the
Monday, March 08, 2021‘COVID burden’ on women must be addressed by Government, says Chambers Ireland
On International Women’s Day (8 March 2021) Chambers Ireland calls on Government to ease the intensified ‘COVID burden’ on women by introducing policies focused on flexible work, parenting equality and the provision of affordable childcare. This aim must be at the centre of the National Economic Plan to ensure women are not left behind during the economic recovery. The call by Chambers Ireland follows the publication of research which showed that over half (57%) of female entrepreneurs in Ireland found
Tuesday, February 09, 2021New COVID Aid Scheme Welcome But More Detail Needed, says Chambers Ireland
Chambers Ireland welcomes the announcement by Government that COVID business grants will be expanded. Speaking this afternoon Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We have raised a number of concerns with Government as to the very narrow qualifying criteria for CRSS, which excluded far too many businesses- particularly those who were in the immediate supply chain and have seen much of their business wiped out to closures of hospitality and retail business. The proposed new COVID Business
Monday, November 23, 2020Tánaiste opens new Brexit Loan for small business
The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD today (23 November 2020) opened a new scheme to help small businesses prepare for Britain’s exit from the single market and customs union at the end of this year. The new Microfinance Ireland (MFI) Brexit Business Loan, will provide up to €25,000 to businesses whose turnover already is or is likely to fall 15% or more or if the business has a short term cashflow need as a result of Brexit. Loans are available for between six
Friday, November 20, 2020Government updates Protocol to protect staff in the workplace
Updated guidance for workers published in line with latest public health guidelines The Government today (20th November 2020) published updated guidance to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the workplace to staff. The pandemic has affected every aspect of our lives. This updated Work Safely Protocol sets out the actions that need to be taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. It contains information and practical advice on a range of topics such as the management and control of outbreaks,
Monday, November 09, 2020Irish Government Adopts EU Traffic Light System
The Irish Government has implemented the new ‘traffic lights’ approach to travel, which applies to countries in the European Union/European Economic Area and to the UK. The Government’s current advice for travel to these countries is to “exercise a high degree of caution”. Its general advice for any other overseas travel remains to “avoid non-essential travel”. Within the ‘traffic lights’ system, regions across the EU, EEA and the UK are categorised as green, orange, red or grey, on the basis of the risk
Friday, November 06, 2020Tánaiste meets with biopharma companies on defeating Covid-19
The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD today (Tuesday the 6th of October) convened a meeting with a number of IDA Ireland’s bio -pharmaceutical client companies to hear about the crucial role they are playing in the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic, both nationally and internationally. The meeting, which was held over video conference included several of the bio pharmaceutical companies who are developing vaccines or therapeutic treatments in
Friday, October 30, 2020Minister Donohoe announces Tourism and Hospitality VAT Rate to move to 9% on Sunday
The Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe T.D., is pleased to announce that, in line with his announcement in Budget 2021, the VAT Rate for the tourism and hospitality sector will drop from 13.5% to 9% from Sunday, 1 November. This rate reduction will apply to catering and restaurant services, tourist accommodation, cinemas, theatres, museums, historic houses, open farms, amusement parks, certain printed matter, and hairdressing. This change will apply from 1 November 2020 to 31 December 2021. Speaking
Sunday, October 25, 2020Tánaiste launches new Brexit Readiness Checker
Fewer than 70 days to 1st January Brexit deadlineprepareforbrexit.com/brexitreadinesschecker The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD today (Sunday, the 25th of October) launched the new online Enterprise Ireland Brexit Readiness Checker to help businesses get ready for the UK’s departure at the end of the year. The Brexit Readiness Checker provides businesses with a quick and accessible way to check their readiness and gives guidance on what steps they need to take
Thursday, October 22, 2020Minister English confirms all retailers can operate remote ordering for collection or delivery of goods
Consumers urged to stay local and shop local Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English TD, has encouraged retailers to continue to adapt their businesses in order to meet the new challenges presented by Level 5 restrictions. New Government regulations now allow for retail outlets to operate online or offer other remote systems of ordering goods for the purposes of collection at the outlet. Minister English said: I recognise the huge impact Level 5 restrictions have on retail
Thursday, October 22, 2020Minister Harris and Minister English welcome new report ‘Leading the Way’ by Expert Group on Future Skills Needs
Investing in Management Development for SME Productivity and Growth The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, which advises the Government on current and future skills needs of the economy and their impact on Ireland’s enterprise and employment growth, has today published a report on SME Management Skills, entitled Leading the Way. The report highlights how essential management skills are to business productivity, resilience and survival. Research has shown firms that invest in management development grow
Wednesday, October 21, 2020Government invites views on Ireland’s medium-term Economic Plan
The Government is today (Wednesday the 21st of October) inviting representatives from employer groups, unions, environment groups and non-governmental bodies to give their views on how Ireland’s economy can recover and prosper post-Covid and the Brexit transition. The National Economic Plan will set the priorities and objectives for Ireland’s medium-term economic recovery. Budget 2021 was unprecedented in scale in the history of the State, reflecting the enormity of the challenges faced by businesses and
Monday, October 19, 2020Following Government decision to introduce new restrictions, Chambers Ireland Calls on Government to Use Time Wisely - Sawtooth approach to COVID-19 restrictions not sustainable
Following an online meeting of Chambers Ireland and CEOs from across the network earlier today (19 October 2020), Chamber leaders call on Government to ensure rapid delivery of supports for businesses impacted by this new wave of restrictions. Government must also ensure these restrictions serve their purpose in reducing spread of COVID-19. This time must be used wisely over the coming weeks to ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place to support local economies to re-open safely and avoid
Tuesday, October 13, 2020Budget 2021 – Preparing Businesses and Protecting Jobs
Budget 2021 prioritises investment in helping businesses respond to the twin crises of Brexit and Covid-19. The funding provided for comes on top of the measures announced earlier this year in the July Stimulus – a €7bn package, aimed at protecting jobs and creating new opportunities. The Tánaiste said: This is a pro-business and pro-jobs Budget aimed at building on what we put in place in the July Stimulus, to help business owners and employees through this exceptionally difficult time. Our efforts
Friday, October 09, 2020Government convenes first meeting of Hospitality and Tourism Forum
The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, today (Friday, 9 October 2020) established the Hospitality and Tourism Forum. Few sectors have been as severely impacted by the pandemic as the hospitality and tourism industry. In recognition of the devasting impact the virus has had, the Tánaiste and Minister Martin have today established the Hospitality and Tourism Forum to
Thursday, October 08, 2020Tánaiste writes to all businesses in Ireland about Brexit
The Tánaiste will write to all 225,000 registered businesses in the country to get ready for Brexit The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar will write to every registered business in Ireland advising them to make sure they are prepared for Brexit. The letter, which will issue to approximately 225,000 businesses registered with the Companies Registration Office over the coming days, will set out what they need to do to get their business ready for Great Britain’s
Monday, October 05, 2020Business community calls for immediate clarification on potential new restrictions - evolved strategy for living with Covid-19 urgently required
This morning (5 October 2020) Chambers Ireland expresses concern at new advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team that the entire country should move to Level 5. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “This latest announcement will come as a shock to businesses and local economies throughout the country, who have been doing their best to adjust to the new reality of living alongside the threat of Covid-19. Our members have many questions regarding the new
Thursday, September 24, 2020Living with COVID Will Require Long-Term Government Support - Latest Chambers Ireland COVID-19 Survey Shows 30% Decline in Turnover Even After Economy Has Reopened
Chambers Ireland and our nationwide network of chambers has today (24 September 2020) published results from a survey of the Irish business community. This survey seeks to quantify and highlight the impact of COVID-19 on businesses in towns, cities, and regions across the country. The survey, which is the fifth in a series, captured over 860 responses during the lead up to the imposition of new restrictions on activity in Dublin. This is the first Chambers Ireland survey in the series that focuses on
Tuesday, September 22, 2020100 days to Brexit – Tánaiste urges businesses to get ready for inevitable change
With 100 days until the end of the transition period, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD is urging businesses to be ready for the inevitable changes that Brexit will mean for their operations at the end of this year. From 1 January 2021, the UK will no longer be in the Single Market or Customs Union which means how we trade with them will be starkly different. Even if a Free Trade Agreement is concluded between the EU and UK, there will be significant and
Tuesday, September 22, 2020Businesses need notice ahead of restrictions and dialogue on supports
Speaking earlier today (22 September 2020) Fingal Chamber Chief Executive, Anthony Cooney, said “Fingal Chamber is concerned about the impact the short notice of Level 3 restrictions in Dublin is having on the businesses and livelihoods of thousands of workers. Recent messaging from Government has caused confusion and the announcement of further restrictions on Dublin six hours ahead of enforcement has been hugely problematic for many businesses. Fingal Chamber is calling for better engagement from the
Friday, September 18, 2020Speech by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin TD
Dia dhaoibh. This evening, all across Europe, the Covid 19 virus is regaining its foothold and spreading at a rate not seen since March and April. In the past two weeks alone, the majority of countries have seen a doubling of new cases. And on our island, while the pattern varies in different counties, the threat is growing. Here, in our Capital, despite people’s best efforts over recent weeks, we are in a very dangerous place. Without further urgent and decisive action, there is a very real threat
Wednesday, September 16, 2020Ministers Donohoe & McGrath announce Budget 2021 Strategy
• Budget 2021 will focus on providing further support to the economy; • Decisions will prioritise crisis management – addressing the fall-out from the Covid-19 pandemic; • Any further measures will be targeted at the three priorities in the Programme for Government – health, housing and climate change; • We will base the Budget on the assumption of a disorderly Brexit; • There will be no broad based increases in income taxation; • Budget 2021 will target an improvement in the headline fiscal
Tuesday, September 15, 2020Government sets out Plan for Covid Resilience and National Recovery
Plan for living with Covid-19 shows families, business & society how to respond to emerging Covid situation over next 7 months€600M in funding agreed for health service Winter Initiative The Government has today published Resilience & Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with Covid-19 which will guide Ireland’s response to saving lives and managing the pandemic over the next seven months. It sets out how Ireland and the Irish people can continue managing the disease in a rapidly changing global
Thursday, September 10, 2020Putting Place First - Government Budget 2021 stimulus must restore the health of our towns and cities
Chambers Ireland today (10 September 2020), launches its submission to Government detailing recommendations to be included in Budget 2021 and the longer term National Economic Plan. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, the Chambers Ireland Budget 2021 Submission makes a series of recommendations that will support businesses to trade through the Pandemic through enabling our town centres and local economies to recover. It also emphasises the importance of investment in infrastructure, the low
Tuesday, September 08, 2020Chambers Ireland welcomes nomination of Mairead McGuinness as European Commissioner designate
Chambers Ireland welcomes the nomination of Mairead McGuinness, by the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as the EU’s next Commissioner designate for Financial Services, Financial Stability and the Capital Markets Union. Speaking today (8 September 2020), Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot wished the new Commissioner-elect well in this important financial portfolio ahead of Brexit and the challenges that Covid-19 continues to pose for the European Union. “Commissioner-designate
Monday, September 07, 2020Credit Guarantee Scheme is a useful addition in suite of supports, but business still needs more from Government
Chambers Ireland today (7 September 2020) welcomes the launch of the new Credit Guarantee Scheme, and encourages businesses to make full use of the range of state supports available. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “The new Scheme is an ambitious new initiative, where 80% of borrowings will be backed by the State. Interest rates will also be offered at a much lower rate than other more traditional business loans. While debt won't suit all businesses, for those
Tuesday, September 01, 2020Chambers Ireland Calls for National Coordinated Strategy on Managing Virus Needed to support Local Economies
Chambers Ireland has today (1 September) sent a letter to An Taoiseach Micheál Martin outlining the concerns of our members regarding the Government response to Covid-19 in advance of the Dáil reconvening. Chamber Ireland Concerns:There is a need for additional supports to help areas where restrictions must be reintroduced, to sustain businesses that are active in those areas, and then to support them upon reopening.It is critical that there is a co-ordinated, coherent and clear programme of policy and
Wednesday, August 19, 2020New Roadmap must ensure there is dialogue with business - Chambers Ireland calls for Government to ensure better engagement with business community in managing restrictions around work and economy
Chambers Ireland today (19 August 2020) calls for clearer, more regular engagement between Government and the business community with regard to COVID-19 restrictions. This includes the communication of new guidance and development of a new Roadmap. Speaking today, Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, "The new restrictions announced last night, and over the past week, bring home the reality of what living alongside the virus will mean in the months to come. A significant second wave will do untold damage to
Monday, August 10, 2020Applications now open for Restart Grant Plus
Fingal County Council is now accepting applications for the Restart Grant Plus which was launched today by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar, TD. Like the Restart Grant Scheme, which closed for applications on July 22, the Restart Grant Plus will assist businesses in covering the costs associated with reopening following the Covid-19 lockdown. It is part of the Government’s July Stimulus package and will be available for businesses with up to 250 employees as
Tuesday, August 04, 2020Phase 4 of the Roadmap for reopening Ireland will be delayed
On 4 August 2020, the Government announced that the move to Phase 4 that was planned for 10 August 2020 will now be delayed for at least 3 weeks until 31 August 2020. Additional measures announced include:Pubs that do not serve food will not be able to reopen on Monday 10 August 2020Restaurants will have to close at 11pmFace coverings will become mandatory in shops and shopping centres from 10 August 2020The current restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings will continue with up to 50 people allowed
Thursday, July 30, 2020Government launches €500 million long-term lending for SMEs, Farmers and Fishing
The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, the Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe TD and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Dara Calleary TD today (Thursday the 30th of July) launched a €500 million expansion to the Future Growth Loan Scheme, the government’s scheme to support SMEs, farmers and fishing. The additional funding will be provided by the European Investment Bank Group. Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD said: “The past few months have been very
Thursday, July 30, 2020Minister Troy welcomes Companies (Miscellaneous Provisions) (COVID-19) Bill 2020
Businesses can hold AGM’s, general meetings and creditors’ meetings by electronic meansExaminership increased to 150 daysThreshold at which company is deemed unable to pay its debts increased to €50,000 30th July 2020 Today the Companies (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Covid-19) Bill 2020 was passed by the Dáil. The Bill makes temporary amendments to the Companies Act 2014 and the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts 1893 – 2018 to address issues arising as a result of Covid-19. The Bill will ensure that
Friday, July 24, 2020Council reaffirms commitment to local businesses following announcement of Government’s July Stimulus package
Fingal County Council has reaffirmed its commitment to support and assist local businesses following the announcement of the Government’s €7.4bn July Stimulus package which sets out a range of measures aimed at stimulating the economy following the Covid-19 pandemic. Fingal County Council has played a central role in supporting the business sector during the Covid-19 period and has already implemented a range of schemes and initiatives to assist small and medium enterprises across Fingal. Key
Thursday, July 23, 2020Government launches €7.4 billion Jobs Stimulus to help businesses re-open, get people back to work and promote confidence
The Government has today announced the July Jobs Stimulus, a €7.4bn package of measures designed to stimulate a jobs-led recovery and build economic confidence while continuing to manage the impact of Covid-19. Launching the Jobs Stimulus, the Taoiseach, Micheál Martin TD said: "The stimulus package announced today will protect existing jobs while creating new and sustainable employment options in the months and years ahead. These measures will support small and medium businesses, give young people
Thursday, July 23, 2020July Stimulus gives breathing room for business, but long-term strategy for recovery will be needed, says Fingal Dublin Chamber
Fingal Dublin Chamber welcomes this afternoon’s announcement (23 July 2020) on the July Stimulus from Government. The measures include:Expansion of grant aid for business impacted by COVID-19Extension and reform of the Wage Subsidy Scheme beyond August, to March next yearExtension of Commercial Rates WaiverStimulus measures to support sectors vulnerable to pandemic social-distancing, including retail, hospitality and tourismAdditional funding for active travel infrastructure Speaking this afternoon,
Wednesday, July 15, 2020Half measures to restart economy will no longer cut it - July Stimulus is last chance to ensure survival of vulnerable businesses
Chambers Ireland today (15 July 2020) publishes its recommendations to Government on the measures that will be necessary to protect jobs, prevent businesses from failing, and support the recovery. Representing 40 Chambers, more than 8,000 businesses and with a geographic reach in all major cities, regions and towns, Chambers Ireland calls for Cabinet to use all resources available to reboot the economy. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “Measures introduced to date to
.jpeg)
Sunday, June 28, 2020Three former councillors appointed as ministers in new cabinet
Fingal County Council welcomes the news that three former councillors of Fingal County Council will serve as ministers in the new government as announced by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin last evening. An Taoiseach Martin revealed his new Cabinet after his election as Taoiseach in the Dublin Convention Centre and his appointment by President Michael D. Higgins. The three ministers from Fingal are former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Dublin West TD, Darragh O’Brien, Dublin Fingal TD, and Roderic O’Gorman,
Monday, June 15, 2020Chambers Ireland welcomes progress on Government Formation
Chambers Ireland today (15 June) welcomed progress in the formation of a new Government and the publication of a Programme for Government. Speaking this afternoon, Chief Executive Ian Talbot said; "The measures included in the new Programme will need to be assessed in greater detail but the focus on town centres, balanced regional development and infrastructure, particularly public transport and housing, is welcome. These issues were the main priorities of our member chambers in the run up to the
Wednesday, June 10, 2020With our economy re-opening, the hard work is only beginning.
Chambers Ireland and our nationwide network of Chambers has today (10 June 2020) published results from a survey of the Irish business community. This survey sought to quantify and highlight the impact of COVID-19 on businesses in our towns, cities and regions across the country. The fourth in a series, the survey has 1,320 responses and was conducted between the 28th May and 2nd June 2020. Our latest survey took a read of the business environment in Phase 1 of our economy’s re-opening following the
Friday, June 05, 2020Progress in Reopening Economy Welcome - Retention of Financial Support in this phase critical, says Chambers Ireland
Chambers Ireland welcomes this afternoon’s announcement (5 June 2020) that the “Roadmap to Re-Opening the Economy” will be escalated and compressed to four stages, rather five, and that we can now progress to Phase Two. This signals that we are through the worst of the COVID-19 outbreak, and returning, with caution, to normality. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “Getting the balance right between supporting the economy and livelihoods, while also protecting
Sunday, May 31, 2020Cross-Sector Open Letter Calls for National Taskforce to revive our town centres in a new post-pandemic world
Chambers Ireland, today (31 May 2020), calls on the next Government to make a commitment that the Department of the Taoiseach will lead a sufficiently resourced, cross-departmental National Taskforce to revive our town centres in a new post-pandemic world. The overarching objective of this Taskforce must be to enhance liveability, increase housing supply and support sustainable, active transport. In an open letter, Chambers Ireland is joined by its members and several other bodies, associations, and
Friday, May 29, 2020Reforms to TWSS welcome, but certainty on duration of the scheme needed urgently
ollowing today’s (29 May 2020) Cabinet meeting, Chambers Ireland welcomes news that the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) will be reformed so that those returning to work from maternity and adoptive leave will be eligible for inclusion. Speaking this evening, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “In submissions to Government, and in a statement earlier today, we called for immediate action to ensure that workers returning from maternity leave, and other forms of caring leave, would be
Friday, May 29, 2020Chambers Ireland calls for Cabinet to give clarity and certainty to business
Ahead of today’s (29 May 2020) Cabinet meeting, Chambers Ireland calls for Government to reform and extend the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) beyond its initial June deadline and ensure the right supports are in place to support business liquidity and jobs. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “There have been indications that the Wage Subsidy Scheme will be retained beyond the initial 12-week period. However, as we approach the end of May, and as more and more
Wednesday, May 27, 2020Data Crucial to Obtaining Supports for Business - Chambers Ireland Launches Latest COVID-19 Business Impact Survey
Chambers Ireland is today (27 May) launching our latest Covid-19 business impact survey. The target of this survey are the business owners and operators around the country, both those whose businesses have been affected by the Covid-19 crisis, and those whose businesses have not. With Phase 1 of the reopening of our economy underway, we are seeking to understand the struggles that businesses are experiencing, including those that are reopening, those that have remained closed, and those that have
Friday, May 22, 2020Half measures not enough - Chambers Ireland calls for significant expansion of supports to support business through COVID-19 catastrophe
Following today’s (22 May 2020) launch of the Restart Fund, Chambers Ireland calls on Government to urgently commit to increased funding and a more expansive approach, so that businesses of all sectors affected can receive support. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot emphasised the need for Government to engage more deeply with the reality of the economic challenges facing the business community and local economies across the country. “The scale and scope of supports for
.jpeg)
Friday, May 22, 2020Applications open for Restart Grant to help Fingal’s micro and small businesses
Applications for the Restart Grant which will give direct grant aid to micro and small businesses to help them with the costs associated with either staying open or reopening and reemploying workers following COVID-19 closures are being accepted from today, Friday, May 22. Businesses in Fingal, which fulfill the criteria, must apply for the Restart Grant though Fingal County Council. Applications are to be submitted on-line at https://submit.link/E5RPF and details of the scheme are also available on
Friday, May 15, 2020Chambers Ireland Welcomes Easing of Restrictions
Chambers Ireland welcomes the Government’s announcement today (15 May) that the first phase of lifting of Covid-19 restrictions will begin next Monday. Speaking earlier, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot said, “It is with great relief that we can welcome the start of our society’s reopening, in the wake of this unprecedented economic lockdown. As we take our first steps along the road to recovery we should be immensely grateful for the efforts of all those who have worked so hard
Friday, April 10, 2020Local Enterprise Office Fingal Welcomes Expansion of Business Supports
Expansion of Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme and reduction in Microfinance Ireland (MFI) interest rate announced Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced a major expansion of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19, including an expansion of the TOV Scheme and a reduction in the interest rate for MFI loans. Minister Humphreys announced the expansion of the €2,500 TOV Scheme through Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), for businesses employing up to 10
Friday, April 10, 2020Chambers Ireland Calls on Government to Join Chambers in Showing Leadership on Prompt Payment
Following the publication of the second Chamber Network survey Chambers Ireland and our nationwide Network of Chambers has today (10 April 2020) called on Government to join Chambers in calling for engagement with the prompt payment legislation and to send a message to business, both public and private, that if you can pay, you should do so on time. The survey, which has over 1,100 responses (1,149) was conducted between 3 April and the morning of 6 April 2020. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland
Thursday, April 02, 2020CSO Figures confirm rapid, meaningful responses from Government will continue to be required over next few weeks
Following the publication of today’s (2 April 2020) live register figures by the CSO, Chambers Ireland calls on Government to ensure that post-crisis, the supports are there to ensure business can re-open. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “Today’s CSO figures illustrate just how much damage has been done to businesses and to livelihoods right across the country. A surge of 24,400 new applicants for jobseekers’ allowances in the space of one month is remarkable
Saturday, March 28, 2020Public Health Measures in place until April 12 to prevent spreading COVID-19
Published: 28 March 2020 From: Department of Health and Department of the Taoiseach 1. Stay at home2. The only reasons you can leave your home3. Essential services, shops, banks and post offices4. Health Services5. Transport and Travel Until the 12 April, everyone is urged to stay in their home wherever possible. Staying at home is the best way to minimise the risk of COVID-19 to your friends, families and communities.Stay at home There are exceptions for some workers in key businesses but for the
Friday, March 27, 2020Speech of An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, Government Buildings, 27 March 2020
Good Evening, Tonight, I want to speak to you about the next stage in our national response to the Coronavirus Emergency. Before I do so, I want to express my condolences to the families and friends of those who passed away today – one of whom was a health care worker. I want to thank all of you for continuing to abide by public health advice. By doing so, you are saving lives and protecting our health service and its staff. Once again, thank you to everyone who is working as part of
Tuesday, March 24, 2020Chamber survey says 90% of businesses experiencing decline in revenue
Chambers Ireland and our nationwide network of chambers has today (24 March 2020) published the results of a survey of its members, which seeks to quantify and highlight the impacts of COVID-19 on business in towns, cities and regions right across the country. Our survey which has over 1,000 responses (1,110) was conducted between the afternoon of the 19 March and the morning of 23 March 2020 Today’s results will inform the advocacy of Chambers Ireland and affiliated chambers, on behalf of businesses
Wednesday, March 18, 2020Minister Donohoe outlines further measures to support Individuals and businesses impacted by COVID-19
The Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure & Reform, Paschal Donohoe T.D., today (Wednesday) welcomed the ongoing work of the Central Bank of Ireland, Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI), and the Revenue Commissioners to support customers in difficulties due to COVID-19. “Today, I had a constructive meeting with the five CEOs of our retail banks and with Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI). I note that a meeting will also be held with the Central Bank tomorrow. I welcome
Thursday, March 12, 2020Business needs flexibility and clarity as we face this national crisis
Fingal Dublin Chamber, Chambers Ireland and the Network of chambers calls for clarity, certainty, and flexibility from the State and its agencies. As we work with Government to address this national crisis, we urge sincere engagement by state bodies to support businesses to stay afloat during these unprecedented times. Our member chambers are active in every major town and city in the country and the businesses which form our network are deeply embedded in their communities across the island. As the
Wednesday, March 11, 2020Chambers Ireland joins Government, Trade Unions & Employer Bodies in shared response to COVID19
Chambers Ireland has today issued the following joint statement with the Government, trade unions and other employer bodies. Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We are committed to showing flexibility and a co-operative approach in managing the inevitable disruption which will arise in these difficult and exceptional times and have also agreed to remain in close contact to monitor labour market developments, including a joint communications effort focused on employers and workers in
Tuesday, March 10, 2020Minister Humphreys announces supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19
The Minister of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI), Heather Humphreys TD, today announced details on the package of supports she has put in place for businesses impacted by COVID-19. Minister Humphreys said, “I know that this is a worrying time for businesses and I want to assure them that my Department and agencies are working on their behalf to develop and deliver a range of supports to help them through this rapidly evolving situation. The Minister continued, “I am hearing from many
Tuesday, March 10, 2020Next Government must align with EU Strategy to Support SMEs, says Chambers Ireland
Chambers Ireland welcomes the publication by the European Commission of a new SME Strategy, with the goal of empowering small businesses to make the digital and the sustainable transition. Welcoming the announcement today (10 March 2020) Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “In the last decade circumstance dictated the EU was tasked primarily with addressing the impacts of the financial crisis. The next ten years pose a very different set of challenges, where we must decarbonize the
Friday, March 06, 2020Fingal pushed into the international spotlight as Royal couple visit historic town of Howth
Fingal was pushed into the international media spotlight this week when the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge spent an afternoon in Howth as part of their first official visit to Ireland. Mayor of Fingal Cllr Eoghan O’Brien, Fingal County Council Chief Executive AnnMarie Farrelly and Director of Operations David Storey were delighted to welcome the Royal couple to the historic Fingal town. Prince William and Princess Catherine enjoyed a walk along the Howth cliffs under glorious blue skies which
Friday, March 06, 2020Chambers Ireland calls for greater Gender Equality measures ahead of International Women’s Day
Ahead of International Women’s Day, Chambers Ireland calls on the next Government to significantly improve labour participation and work with business in transforming our workplaces, making them more flexible and inclusive. In particular, Chambers Ireland calls for action on reducing the gender gaps in employment, pay and pensions Speaking this morning (6 March 2020), Chambers Ireland President Siobhan Kinsella says, “The best way for Ireland to remain competitive and sustainable as an economy is
Tuesday, February 25, 2020Four new councillors co-opted to Fingal County Council
Four new councillors were co-opted as members of Fingal County Council at a Special Meeting this evening. The vacancies occurred following the election of four councillors to Dáil Eireann in the recent General Election. Cllr Aaron O’Rourke (Sinn Fein) replaces Deputy Paul Donnelly as a councillor for the Ongar Local Electoral Area. He was proposed by Cllr Natalie Treacy and seconded by Cllr Ann Graves. Cllr Pamela Conroy (Green Party) replaces Deputy Roderic O’Gorman as a councillor for the
Wednesday, February 12, 2020The CSO’s Home Building Figures Obscure Underlying Problems
Chambers Ireland welcomes the increase in the CSO’s house completion figures but calls on political parties to ensure the next Programme for Government tackles delivery obstacles and relegates sprawl to the past. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We welcome the increased construction of new homes in the CSO figures and in particular the rise of concentrated building in urban areas. The increasing density of new developments is positive too, with apartment builds in
Friday, February 07, 2020Time for Reflection is Over: Delivery of Agreed Long-Term Plans Must be Immediate Priority of next Government
In the final 24 hours before polls open, Chambers Ireland calls on voters and candidates to deliver on agreed investment in existing plans for infrastructure and regional development. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot says, “Over the past number of years, huge efforts have been made by a wide cross-section of interests, including business, regional authorities, local Government and national legislators, to agree long-term strategies to improve our infrastructure, grow
Thursday, February 06, 2020Transformation to Inclusive 21st Century Workplace Must be Top of Next Government’s Jobs Strategy
In the face of ongoing economic challenges, on everything from changes to the international taxation environment, Foreign Direct Investment and Brexit, Chambers Ireland emphasises the need to improve the efficiency of our domestic economy and support labour participation. This objective must be central to the enterprise agenda of the incoming Government. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland President Siobhan Kinsella says, “The Goal of Decent work and Economic Growth is a major component of Chambers
Friday, January 31, 2020Brexit Day: Another Cliff Edge Year Lies Ahead
Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot commented this morning on the UK's formal departure from the European Union taking place today. "Today marks a very sad day for businesses in Ireland with the departure of the United Kingdom from the EU. Businesses will now hope for a comprehensive, ambitious series of agreements to underpin the future relationship between the UK and the EU. Throughout the Brexit referendum processes and subsequent negotiations we expressed our regret at the UK’s decision to
Friday, January 24, 2020Places Matter, says Chambers Ireland and Calls on Next Government to Support Balanced Regional Devel
Places Matter, says Chambers Ireland and Calls on Next Government to Support Balanced Regional Development Through Delivery of Critical Infrastructure Chambers Ireland today (24 January 2020) calls for the next Government to deliver on commitments in the National Planning Framework and Climate Action Plan and ensure delivery of important infrastructure needed to support the competitiveness and sustainability of our economy. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot
Wednesday, January 22, 2020Council continues to deliver its Rebuilding Ireland commitments
Councillors in Fingal County Council have approved plans to construct 87 more social homes on three sites in Swords, Cappagh and Clonshaugh as the Council continues to deliver on its commitments under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan. Since 2015, Fingal County Council has delivered over 6,200 housing solutions through a range of delivery mechanisms including construction, Part V, acquisitions, leasing and Housing Assistance Payments (HAP). “Over the past five years councillors and staff have
Tuesday, January 21, 2020On Mission to Brussels, Chambers call on General Election Candidates to Set Out Strategy to Maximise
At the outset of President Von der Leyen’s Commission Presidency, Chambers Ireland is today (21 January 2020) leading a delegation from our Network of 40 Chambers to Brussels, meeting with EU officials to set out the priorities of Irish business during this new legislative term. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, noted the extraordinary economic impact the EU has had on Ireland. “In the last decade, the EU was tasked with addressing the impacts of the financial crisis.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020Notice for the public regarding being registered to vote in the General Election
NOT SURE IF YOU ARE REGISTERED TO VOTE IN THE GENERAL ELECTION ON 8 FEBRUARY? THEN CHECK THE REGISTER AT WWW.VOTER.IE OR WWW.CHECKTHEREGISTER.IE In order to vote at the General Election on the 8th February you must be registered on the Register of Electors 2019/2020 You are eligible to vote in the General Election:-If you were on the register or supplement for the Local Election last May 2019 and the Bye Election in November 2019 and have Irish or British citizenship you are eligible
Friday, January 10, 2020Chambers Ireland Welcomes Political Support for Deal to Restore Stormont
Chambers Ireland this evening (10 January 2020) welcomes news that there is support for the deal to restore Stormont’s political institutions. Speaking this evening, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “The absence of power-sharing in Northern Ireland for nearly three years has been keenly felt on both sides of the border and so we welcome this evening’s development. Many issues will require the attention of the Stormont Assembly in the coming weeks and months, not least of all, Brexit
Monday, December 16, 2019Greater business awareness of Brexit impact encouraging but more to be done
Following the publication of the survey results from the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation highlighting the level of Brexit preparation among Irish businesses, Chambers Ireland continues to urge businesses across different sectors to review and prepare for the potential impact of the UK’s departure from the EU and to use the transition period time-frame to prepare in 2020. Commenting on the results this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “It’s encouraging
Tuesday, December 03, 2019Strong Exchequer Returns welcome but surplus must be invested wisely
Following the publication of the November Exchequer Returns this afternoon (3 December 2019), Chambers Ireland welcomes the strong performance of the economy and notes the record receipts in corporation tax, calling for above profile receipts to be transferred to the Rainy Day Fund. Noting the Exchequer Returns released today, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “These exchequer returns show an economy performing very strongly. As we face global uncertainties arising from trade disputes
Wednesday, November 27, 2019Fingal adopts budget of €269m for 2020
Fingal County Council has adopted a budget of €269m for 2020 to provide services and investment designed to improve the county as a place in which to live, work and invest. It is an increase of €32m from 2019 and is the equivalent of €911 per head of population. The 2020 Budget will enable the Council to continue managing the on-going demands of the fast-growing and youngest county in Ireland. The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Eoghan O’Brien said: “The budget process began as soon as the new Council came
Friday, October 25, 2019Chambers Ireland makes urgent call for certainty on Brexit extension date
Following today’s announcement from the EU 27 member states that agreement has been reached in principle by the bloc to allow a further delay to Brexit beyond the 31st October, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot called for more immediate certainty with any extension. “While we appear to have an extension to the UK’s departure from the EU we need a confirmed date as a matter of urgency, for the sake of Irish businesses, their employees and the Irish economy as a whole. Businesses and consumers
Thursday, October 17, 2019Chambers Ireland outlines key priorities ahead of Budget 2020
Ahead of tomorrow’s announcement of Budget 2020 by the Minister of Finance, Chambers Ireland calls on Government to plan for the long-term challenges to the Irish economy. Speaking this morning (7 October 2019), Siobhan Kinsella, President of Chambers Ireland outlined some of Chambers Ireland’s key asks for Budget 2020 and beyond. “The priority of our network is investment in capital infrastructure, where we want to see real progress in the delivery of capital projects. We will also be closely
Monday, October 14, 2019Councillors approve €619m Capital Programme
Councillors approved a Capital Programme worth €619m at tonight’s monthly meeting of Fingal County Council in County Hall, Swords. The three-year rolling programme runs from 2020 to 2022 across seven divisions and represents a €30.63m increase on the 2019-2021 Capital Programme and a 91% increase on the €324m provided for in the 2017-2019 Capital Programme. A total of 236 projects are included with an estimated spend of €187m in 2020. The following year, 2021, capital expenditure will be in the region of
Tuesday, October 08, 2019Plan for Brexit will be welcomed by business, but a missed opportunity to invest
Following today’s Budget 2020 statement by Minister Paschal Donohoe, Chambers Ireland welcomes the overall approach of the Government to opt for prudence and to prepare for the very real possibility of a No-Deal Brexit. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland President Siobhan Kinsella said, “Under normal circumstances, with the economy performing as well as it has been, we would be expecting a very different Budget. But in the words of the Minister, this is an uncertain and unprecedented time. We
Tuesday, September 24, 2019Chambers Ireland Calls for Budget 2020 to Focus on Planning for the Long-Term, as well as Brexit
Chambers Ireland, in an address to the Oireachtas Committee on Budgetary Oversight, welcomes the prudent decision by the Minister of Finance to plan for a 'No-Deal' Brexit Budget, but also calls on Government and legislators not to lose sight of other longer-term challenges for the Irish economy. Addressing the Committee this afternoon (24 September 2019), Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “While the impact of Brexit requires significant attention, we must not lose sight of the
Wednesday, September 11, 2019No-Deal Brexit must be prepared for, but capital projects must be delivered
Following the Cabinet level agreement that Budget 2020 is to be prepared under a ‘no-deal’ Brexit scenario, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot has welcomed this decision, specifically the regional and sectoral approach, and calls on Government to ensure that spending for capital projects is delivered. “Decisions on Budget 2020 must be based on what we know. Currently there is no Withdrawal Agreement, so the departure of the UK from the EU without a deal at the end of October must be the
Tuesday, September 10, 2019Chambers Ireland welcomes nomination of Phil Hogan as EU Trade Commissioner
Chambers Ireland welcomes the nomination of Phil Hogan, by the European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, as the EU’s next Trade Commissioner. Speaking today, Chambers Ireland chief executive Ian Talbot wished the new Commissioner well and urged him to continue the advancement of a progressive SME-friendly trade agenda on behalf of the EU. “Commissioner Hogan brings great experience to the role from his previous portfolio as Commissioner for Agriculture, particularly from his work in
Tuesday, August 13, 2019Infrastructure and Housing measures at the heart of Chambers Ireland’s Pre-Budget Submission
Speaking this morning (13 August 2019) about Chambers Ireland’s Budget 2020 recommendations on Infrastructure and Housing, chief executive Ian Talbot emphasised that regardless of the economic uncertainties we face, Government must ensure that the NDP investments set out under that plan are realised. “The priority issue for Budget 2020, as identified by our network of chambers, is that we must see real progress in the capital projects included in the NDP. For this plan to be delivered the project
.jpg)
Wednesday, July 31, 2019Brexit could impact every business in Ireland – preparation is critical
Reports today that in the last year the majority of SMEs have either postponed, or are reviewing, their investment plans highlights the impact of the Brexit negotiations on the Irish economy. Speaking this morning, Chambers Ireland chief executive Ian Talbot emphasised the importance for businesses of all sizes to prepare now before the UK’s final departure deadline at the end of October. “Brexit uncertainty and the threat of a ‘no-deal’ has caused significant damage to businesses across the
Tuesday, July 09, 2019Businesses must actively prepare for worst case Brexit scenario
Following today's (9 July 2019) publication of the revised Brexit contingency action plan from the Irish Government, Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive urges businesses to comprehensively review this latest Brexit resource and to continue to prepare for a highly possible 'no-deal' outcome this October. “Today's revised contingency action plan is being published as a result of the lack of action being taken, or likely to be taken in the next few weeks, in Westminster to remove the threat of a
Monday, May 27, 2019Chief Executive looking forward to working with new Council
Interim Chief Executive, AnnMarie Farrelly, has extended her congratulations to those elected to Fingal County Council over the weekend and stated she and her colleagues are looking forward to working with them to keep Fingal the place of choice to live, work, visit and do business in. “I offer my congratulations to all our new and returning councillors and particularly to our Mayor and Deputy Mayor who had to balance their obligations of office with campaigning over the last few months. Some of the
Friday, May 24, 2019Theresa May’s successor must avoid a disorderly Brexit
With today’s announcement (24 May 2019) of UK Prime Minister Theresa May’s official resignation on 7 June, Chambers Ireland calls on the British Parliament to elect a Prime Minister who will seek to prevent a no-deal, disorderly Brexit. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “Today’s announcement by Mrs. May brings progress on the Withdrawal Agreement to a halt. Unless all sides agree upon a plan, Britain leaves the European Union with a no-deal Brexit by automatic
Tuesday, May 14, 2019AnnMarie Farrelly appointed as Interim Chief Executive of Fingal County Council
AnnMarie Farrelly has been appointed as Interim Chief Executive of Fingal County Council following the departure of Paul Reid to become Director General of the Health Service Executive. Ms Farrelly, who held the role of Director of Planning and Strategic Infrastructure, was appointed by the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government and assumes the role of Interim CEO from today (May 14) until a permanent appointment is made by the Public Appointments Service. “Quality of life, housing
Tuesday, April 16, 2019New Electoral Portal Voter.ie Launched in the Dublin Region
A new web portal enabling over 1 million Dublin residents to check their electoral details in real-time has been rolled out in the Dublin region. Voters can check if they are eligible to vote in an election by entering their full name and address or Eircode on the Voter.ie website. It is an additional service available to voters in Dublin and it does not replace the existing paper process. Voter.ie is a joint initiative involving the four Dublin local authorities. It was developed to improve the
Tuesday, April 16, 2019Chambers Ireland Launches Local Government Manifesto
Today (16 April 2019), Chambers Ireland is launching our Local Government manifesto and calls on voters to ask their candidates the hard questions about the long-term future of their areas: How candidates intend to deliver sustainable infrastructure and housing for their communities? What will they do to support local economic development? And, how will their policies help adapt our economy to decarbonisation? Chambers Ireland is a network of businesses with a geographic reach that spans the cities and
Monday, April 15, 2019Chambers Ireland Calls on European Candidates to Keep Europe Competitive
The deadline for candidates to submit nomination papers ahead of the upcoming EU elections is at midday this afternoon. Ahead of the nomination deadline, Chambers Ireland calls on candidates to advocate for a sustainable, competitive Europe that creates jobs and supports economic growth. Speaking today (15 April 2019), Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot said, “These are precarious times. The outcome of Brexit is still to be decided, and on the continent, we are seeing ever increasing
Wednesday, April 03, 2019Chambers Ireland Calls on Government to Urgently Complete Review of Local Property Tax
Following the announcement of Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe to undertake further consultation and defer the valuation date, Chambers Ireland today (3 April 2019) calls for a commitment from Government to review this decision and complete the review of LPT as a priority in advance of Budget 2020 so that no further deferral of the valuation date beyond 1 November 2020 takes place. Speaking this afternoon Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland said, "LPT is a vital part of widening our tax base to
Friday, March 29, 2019Chambers Ireland calls for a delay to Brexit and a long extension of talks
Chambers Ireland today (29 March 2019) calls for a delay to Brexit and a long extension of talks, following this afternoon’s defeat of the Withdrawal Agreement in the House of Commons. Speaking this afternoon Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said; "Despite the efforts made over the past week by all parties to forge an acceptable compromise agreement, businesses now find themselves in an even more precarious position, where the UK’s departure without any deal is still a real possibility. This
Tuesday, March 26, 2019Fingal County Council welcomes MetroLink announcement
Fingal County Council has welcomed today’s announcement by the National Transport Authority and Transport Infrastructure Ireland on the Preferred Route for MetroLink, linking Swords to Charlemont. The Council has also stressed the importance of ensuring that the project sticks to its proposed timelines and becomes operational as scheduled in 2027. The Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid, who led the calls for the Northern route to be prioritised, said today’s announcement would be
Friday, March 15, 2019Additional services should be devolved to Irish local authorities from central government
Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid has stated that the debate surrounding Local Government in Ireland needs to extend from just the focus on who runs the sector to a debate about what services could be further devolved from Central Government. Addressing a conference organised by the Centre for Local and Regional Governance in University College Cork on Thursday evening (March 14), Mr Reid said compared to other countries from around the world, Irish local authorities had fewer services
Friday, March 15, 2019Additional services should be devolved to local authorities from central government - Paul Reid
Additional services should be devolved to Irish local authorities from central government – Fingal County Council Chief Executive Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid has stated that the debate surrounding Local Government in Ireland needs to extend from just the focus on who runs the sector to a debate about what services could be further devolved from Central Government. Addressing a conference organised by the Centre for Local and Regional Governance in University College Cork on
Wednesday, March 13, 2019Removal of ‘no-deal’ welcome, now is the time for constructive solutions
Commenting this evening (13 March 2019) on the UK Parliament’s vote on leaving the European Union without a Withdrawal Agreement and a Framework for the Future Relationship, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We welcome the result of tonight’s vote and the progress being made to ensure a disorderly withdrawal from the EU by the UK does not occur. However the vote is of little relevance unless it is followed up with firm and decisive legislative action by the UK Parliament to stop
Wednesday, February 20, 2019Chambers for Europe - Election an Opportunity for Ireland to Ensure its place at heart of EU
Ahead of the European Parliament elections taking place this May, Chambers Ireland and a delegation of representatives from around the Irish Chamber Network today (20 Feb 2019) launches its “Chambers for Europe” manifesto in Brussels. Speaking at the European Parliament this morning, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot calls on businesses and their employees to proactively engage with election candidates and highlight their priority concerns ahead of the upcoming election. "Despite
Monday, February 11, 2019MetroLink project to Swords must proceed without further delay, Chief Executive tells Council
MetroLink project to Swords must proceed without further delay, Chief Executive tells Council Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid has insisted that the MetroLink project to Swords, via Dublin Airport, should proceed without further delay, regardless of any issues relating to the southside aspect of the route, to ensure it meets its 2027 completion target. In his Chief Executive’s report to Council at this evening’s monthly meeting in County Hall, Swords, Mr Reid stated it is “imperative”
Thursday, January 31, 2019The First Dáil commemorated in County Hall Swords
An enthusiastic crowd including many from local Historical Societies enjoyed a very informative talk given by Dr. William Murphy, on the First Dáil in the Council Chamber, Swords on Monday January 21st. Fingal County Council, in conjunction with Rolestown/Oldtown Historical Association were commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first meeting of Dáil Éireann in the Round Room in the Mansion House on 21st January 1919. The talk attracted a cross section of elected members, past and present, including
Friday, January 18, 2019‘Arts for all’ as Fingal County Council adopts new Arts Plan for 2019-2025
‘Arts for all’ as Fingal County Council adopts new Arts Plan for 2019-2025 Fingal County Council have formally adopted an Arts Plan for 2019-2025 that seeks to enable all in Fingal to access a wide range of arts and cultural experiences, to foster diversity of arts practice and to support artists of many different backgrounds. Four key objectives feature in the plan, which was approved at the Fingal County Council Meeting in Swords on Monday last (January 14). “Making Space for Art” will be
Wednesday, January 16, 2019Changing to Qualified Majority Voting on tax issues will act against Irish competitiveness
Changing to Qualified Majority Voting on tax issues will act against Irish competitiveness Commenting on today’s (15 January 2019) official Communication from the European Commission, calling on European leaders to consider moving to qualified majority voting in EU taxation policy, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot commented, “Ireland’s tax system has been one of the key tools supporting Ireland’s competitiveness and has been utilised effectively for our economic development since 1956.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019Uncertainty prevails in vote against Orderly Withdrawal
Uncertainty prevails in the vote against Orderly Withdrawal Commenting on this evening’s (15 January 2019) outcome of the 'meaningful vote' in the UK's House of Commons, which ended in a vote against the Withdrawal Agreement, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot commented, “After months of speculation and despite the recent assurances to the UK from the EU on their commitments within the Withdrawal Agreement, this evening's vote is disappointing and only prolongs the difficult position which many
Wednesday, December 19, 2018Brexit: European Commission implements “no-deal” Contingency Action Plan in specific sectors
Brexit: European Commission implements “no-deal” Contingency Action Plan in specific sectors The United Kingdom will leave the European Union in 100 days' time. Given the continued uncertainty in the UK surrounding the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement, as agreed between the EU and the UK on 25 November 2018 – and last week's call by the European Council (Article 50) to intensify preparedness work at all levels and for all outcomes – the European Commission has today started implementing
Tuesday, December 11, 2018Brexit Withdrawal Agreement: deferral of UK Parliament vote heightens unease among EU businesses
Brexit Withdrawal Agreement: deferral of UK Parliament vote heightens unease among EU businesses During a two-day mission to London on Monday and Tuesday, EUROCHAMBRES members have expressed their growing concern of a disorderly Brexit as a result of the deferral of the Withdrawal Agreement by the UK Parliament. Chambers across the EU have been preparing businesses for a no deal Brexit for some time and those efforts are now being redoubled. EUROCHAMBRES Deputy President, Ian Talbot, who is
Wednesday, November 14, 2018Chambers Ireland welcomes approval of Withdrawal Agreement text
Chambers Ireland welcomes approval of Withdrawal Agreement text Chambers Ireland today (14 November 2018) welcomes the approval of the Withdrawal Agreement text by the UK Cabinet. Speaking this evening, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said, “We welcome today’s approval of the Withdrawal Agreement text by the UK Cabinet, recognizing the huge effort by the respective negotiating teams. This is an important next step to the conclusion of the withdrawal agreement and business
Friday, November 09, 2018Implementation of EU Free Trade Agreements must improve to bring clear benefits to SMEs
Implementation of EU Free Trade Agreements must improve to bring clear benefits to SMEs Ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council Taking Place today in Brussels (9 November 2018), Chambers Ireland, in collaboration with our colleagues in Eurochambres, urges Member States and the European Commission to increase their efforts to improve the implementation of EU Free Trade Agreements so that they are more accessible, particularly to SMEs. Speaking this afternoon, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive and
Thursday, October 25, 2018No-deal Brexit will impact business across the EU, says Northern European Coastal Chamber Alliance
No-deal Brexit will impact business across the EU, says Chambers Ireland and its counterpart Chambers in the Northern European Coastal Chamber Alliance At a meeting today (Thursday 25 October 2018) with Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab, Chambers Ireland joined with our colleagues from the Northern European Coastal Chamber Alliance, including the British Chambers of Commerce, to urge negotiators to avoid a messy, no-deal. In a landmark meeting, the seven Chambers – based in the UK, France, Germany,
Friday, October 19, 2018Singapore Free Trade Agreement signing is great opportunity for Irish export growth
Singapore Free Trade Agreement signing is great opportunity for Irish export growth Commenting on today's signature of the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union and Singapore at the ASEM Summit in Brussels (19 October 2018) Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland commented, "We welcome today's signing of the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement at the Asia Europe Meeting taking place in Brussels. Ireland’s ability to benefit from the huge negotiating strength
Wednesday, October 10, 2018Fingal Dublin Chamber disappointed with Government’s decision to increase the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector
Fingal Dublin Chamber disappointed with Government’s decision to increase the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector Fingal Dublin Chamber would like to express its disappointment at the announcement made yesterday by Minister for Finance, Pascal O’Donohoe to increase the 9% VAT rate to 13.5% as part of Budget 2019. This increase will take effect from the 1st January 2019. This is a serious blow to the many small and medium-sized local businesses affected in the Fingal area who had just begun to
Tuesday, October 09, 2018Budget 2019: Measures to deliver infrastructure welcome, but little to improve competitiveness
Budget 2019: Measures to deliver infrastructure welcome, but little to improve short-term competitiveness Speaking following the delivery of Budget 2019 by Minister Paschal Donohoe today (9 October 2018), Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, commented: "Government’s chosen path for Budget 2019 will produce long term benefits for the Irish economy if measures announced are implemented appropriately and rapidly. Balancing the books, delivering promised investments, establishing the Rainy
Friday, October 05, 2018BCC, NI Chamber, Chambers Ireland: Businesses across GB, NI and Ireland need speed and precision in
BCC, NI Chamber, Chambers Ireland: Businesses across GB, NI and Ireland need speed and precision injected into Brexit negotiations With less than six months until Brexit, the leading UK, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland business groups are joining forces to call on both sides to redouble efforts in the on-going negotiations to ensure an agreement is reached that provides clarity and continuity for trade within and between these islands. Leaders from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC),
Tuesday, October 02, 2018Staying the course is key going into Budget 2019
Staying the course is key going into Budget 2019 Commenting on the release of today’s (2 October 2018) Fiscal Monitor, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland said, “Today’s final Exchequer Returns before the announcement of Budget 2019 next week holds no surprises or promises of any giveaway. They do however illustrate the ongoing need for prudent decisions. From the perspective of business, we need to see delivery on promised investment, particularly in infrastructure. Available
Wednesday, September 26, 2018Chambers Call on Government to Make Childcare More Affordable in Budget 2019
Chambers Call on Government to Make Childcare More Affordable in Budget 2019 Chambers Ireland and its network of Chambers from around the country gathered in Dublin today for the first Chamber Network Budget Dialogue, where they called on Government to ensure that investments committed to as part of the National Development Plan are delivered on as part of Budget 2019. Chambers also called on Government to tackle the high cost of doing business, the general high cost of living across Ireland and future
Wednesday, September 19, 2018Salzburg Summit Brexit talks: Priority #1 = Ensure an Orderly Brexit
Salzburg Summit Brexit talks: Priority #1 = Ensure an Orderly Brexit Chambers Ireland today, in association with Eurochambres (the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry) has published a new position paper conveying a simple message to EU27 Heads of State for their Salzburg Summit talks on Brexit this evening and tomorrow; focus on finalizing the UK Withdrawal Agreement to ensure an orderly Brexit and transition phase. As the clock ticks down towards 29 March 2019, the paper
Tuesday, September 18, 2018Chambers Ireland calls for infrastructure delivery at Budget Committee
Chambers Ireland calls for infrastructure delivery at Budget Committee Appearing today (18 September 2018) before the Budget Oversight Committee, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot called on Government to ensure that commitments made in the National Development Plan are delivered on. “Budget 2019 will be the first following the finalisation of Project Ireland 2040 and it is crucial that investments announced in the National Development Plan begin and the strategic plans set out in the
Tuesday, September 04, 2018Childcare investment must be prioritised in Budget 2019
Childcare investment must be prioritised in Budget 2019 Commenting on today's (4 September 2018) ESRI report on childcare costs, Fingal Dublin Chamber Chief Executive Anthony Cooney said, “The analysis in today’s ESRI report clearly outlines what we have been hearing from the Chamber Network for some time now; that high childcare costs are directly impacting upon women in the workplace, contributing to lower rates of employment and contributing significantly to the high cost of living in Ireland. In
Tuesday, September 04, 2018Exchequer Returns signal importance of prudence in Budget 2019
Exchequer Returns signal importance of prudence in Budget 2019 Commenting on the release of today’s (4 September 2018) Fiscal Monitor, Anthony Cooney, Chief Executive of Fingal Dublin Chamber said, “The results from today’s Exchequer Returns indicate that Budget 2019 must be a prudent one. Considering these returns alongside the economic uncertainties facing us from a variety of external factors, we urge Government to ensure that Budget 2019 is not a free-for-all. The message from business is clear:
Friday, July 06, 2018Chambers Ireland welcomes green-light for EU-Japan Trade Deal
Chambers Ireland welcomes green-light for EU-Japan Trade Deal Chambers Ireland today (6 July 2018) welcomes the news that the EU and Japan have been authorised to formally ratify a new trade deal, negotiations for which first began in 2013. Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot commented, “Exactly one year to the day when the deal was approved by the European Commission, today’s approval of the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement by European member countries at Council is a welcome stand
Tuesday, June 26, 2018Business voice must be heard as Brexit deadlines come and go
Business voice must be heard as Brexit deadlines come and go Ahead of this week’s meeting of the EU Council and in light of the snail’s pace in negotiations between the UK and EU, Chambers Ireland today (26 June 2018) calls on the EU27 and the UK government to provide clarity to business on what the future trade relationship post-March 2019 will be. Speaking this afternoon, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland said, “This week’s European Council Summit is the final official meeting of
Tuesday, June 19, 2018Preparing Economy for Future Requires Prudence and Investment
Fingal Dublin Chamber today (19 June 2018) welcomed the announcement by Minister Donohoe in the Summer Economic Statement of safeguarding the economy from potential future challenges and ensuring the delivery of capital commitments. Anthony Cooney, Chief Executive of Fingal Dublin Chamber commenting on the statement said, “The fiscal space and budget strategy announced by the Minister of Finance are much as had been expected. Budget 2019 will see a limited amount of fiscal space given the previous
Monday, June 11, 2018Global Ireland 2025 Plans an ambitious step in Ireland’s future path
Global Ireland 2025 Plans an ambitious step in Ireland’s future path Commenting on today’s (11 June 2018) launch of the Global Ireland 2025 plans, Fingal Dublin Chamber Chief Executive Anthony Cooney said, “We welcome today’s launch of the Global Ireland 2025 plans and the scale of the ambitions they aim to achieve over the coming years. Fingal Dublin Chamber has previously called for various initiatives to safeguard and develop further Ireland's international trade and diplomatic networks in the
Thursday, May 10, 2018Apple’s Data Centre withdrawal demonstrates need for urgent review of planning system
Apple’s Data Centre withdrawal demonstrates need for urgent review of planning system Commenting on today’s (10 May 2018) announcement by Apple that they will no longer proceed with their plans for the development of a data centre in Athenry, Anthony Cooney, Chief Executive of Fingal Dublin Chamber said, "This morning’s announcement by Apple to halt their plans for a data centre in Athenry is disappointing but not surprising and will be met with dismay by the business community generally as well as in
