Enhanced competitiveness supports needed in Budget 2026, says Cork Chamber
A survey of chamber members found that investment in infrastructure and connectivity was the single most important budgetary measure to support competitiveness, with President of the chamber Rob Horgan calling it vital for Cork's future.
"Competitiveness is comprised of many different elements – infrastructure investment, supports for SMEs and innovation, cost of business measures, tax reforms – and government needs to take a holistic approach to future competitiveness in Budget 2026.
'What became clear in the survey results was that many in the business community value investments in Ireland's long-term competitiveness, building the infrastructure and supportive policies that will help to sustain economic growth into the future.
At almost 80%, a significant majority of responding businesses expressed confidence in the Irish economy at the end of June, representing a slight increase from 74% at the end of March this year.
Auriol Kelly, Business Banking Manager at PTSB who sponsored the survey, stated, 'Confidence in the Irish economy continues to be strong, despite some economic uncertainty at a global level.
"What is particularly positive is the high level of business confidence expressed by Cork Chamber members, 94% of respondents reported feeling confident about the future of their own business.
'Supporting businesses to continue on this positive trajectory is a key priority and Budget 2026 represents a further opportunity for government to put in place measures that support Ireland's economic competitiveness in the long term.'
Mr Horgan said the high level of business and economic confidence was encouraging, although he said it was critical that ongoing support for businesses is prioritised by government.
"Some 94% of respondents stated that they do not believe Cork is currently receiving sufficient funding to support the projected increase in the region's population in the coming decades.
"It is vital that investment in Cork's infrastructure, housing and public realm is prioritised to ensure businesses continue to thrive in the city and county.'
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