Latest news with #CorkChamber
Irish Examiner
31-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Competitive tax policies needed in Budget 2026, says Cork Chamber
A competitive taxation policy and a reduction in administrative burdens are needed to support businesses, Cork Chamber has said, with the group outlining a list of proposals ahead of Budget 2026. In its submission, Cork Chamber said the Government needs to enable innovation and entrepreneurship against the current backdrop of evolving global trade dynamics to ensure the city's future economic competitiveness. Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber, said, 'Cork's business community is acutely aware of the economic imperative of investing in our competitiveness, now more than ever. "Businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to large domestic and multinationals firms, know that enhancing our competitiveness demands a whole-of-government approach to address challenges across all areas of the economy. 'The proposals in our Budget 2026 submission are designed to be complementary, driving forward Ireland's overall competitiveness in a meaningful and achievable way through targeted measures to encourage innovation, to support scaling domestic firms and to ensure that SMEs are not unduly impacted by regulatory changes.' As part of its submission, Cork Chamber said housing delivery must keep pace with both current and projected future demand, which requires a step change in government policy and budgetary provisions for the sector. The group has called for the delivery of between 7,500 and 10,000 housing units per year. To further increase housing availability, the chamber is calling for increases in cost rental income limits, timebound tax measures for apartment developments, and accelerated reliefs for brownfield sites. Infrastructure The business group is also calling for enhanced infrastructure, urging for public transport spending to be accelerated to facilitate a growing population. Among its demands are funding commitments for the Cork Luas, enhanced intercity rail services, and further investment in Cork Airport. The group also said addressing skill gaps is crucial in attracting and retain foreign direct investment, adding that it was critical that government takes steps to support the development of talent, through robust further and higher education funding, as well as upskilling and reskilling opportunities. 'Our asks for Budget 2026 address the critical areas of housing; infrastructure; education, talent and skills; renewable energy and sustainability; and urban evolution and tourism," said Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber. "Each proposal in Cork Chamber's budget submission is grounded in the priorities, challenges and needs of our members. 'The priorities for members are clear: investments in housing and infrastructure are needed now, alongside a sustained effort to support businesses to grow and thrive in Ireland. What we need to see from government in Budget 2026 is a clear commitment to the delivery of projects and initiatives, on budget and on time.'
Irish Examiner
09-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Enhanced competitiveness supports needed in Budget 2026, says Cork Chamber
Business competitiveness, housing and the cost of living have been listed as the top priorities for Cork Chamber members ahead of Budget 2026, with the business group urging for enhanced investment to support business activity. 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.'
BreakingNews.ie
24-06-2025
- Business
- BreakingNews.ie
Cork Super Cup expected to provide €6 million economic boost
Businesses around Cork are expected to benefit from a potential €6 million boost as soccer fans flock to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh for the Cork Super Cup. The event will see Scottish Premiership Champions Celtic FC travel to take on Cork City FC in a pre-season friendly at 6pm on July 8th, 2025. Advertisement Organisers have been engaging with local businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, as the event will bring significant numbers of visitors to Cork city and county. The Cork Super Cup is a joint initiative between Cork GAA and sports marketing agency Druid Sport to bring another record-breaking mid-summer event to the stadium. The match will only be the fourth ever soccer match to be staged at the historic grounds, and the first competitive men's game. Kevin O'Donovan, chief executive of Cork GAA said: 'It's fantastic to welcome football giants Celtic FC and our own local soccer club, Cork City FC, to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh for what is promising to be a really exciting evening of sport and family fun. Advertisement "The launch of the Cork Super Cup was well received locally and we have been getting a lot of support from businesses across all sectors including retail, hospitality and transport. Events such as this generate important funds for the stadium to be enjoyed by all.' Conor Healy, chief executive of Cork Chamber said: 'Events like the Cork Super Cup are critically important for Cork's business community, providing a welcome boost to the local economy. Such events also serve to enhance Cork's competitive offering, showcasing the very best of what the region has to offer to visitors and locals alike.' The winners will lift a specially commissioned Cork Super Cup trophy, designed by former Cork GAA legend Ger McCarthy. Iarnród Éireann has updated its schedule to facilitate those travelling to the game with the last service from Cork Kent to Dublin Heuston now departing at 21:25pm on the day. This train will also stop at Mallow, Limerick Junction, Thurles and Portlaoise. There will also be a late train to Limerick, leaving Kent Station at 21:25pm while match goers from Kerry will be able to avail of the Tralee train, leaving Kent Station at 20:55pm.
Irish Examiner
05-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Cork Chamber is named Chamber of the Year
Cork Chamber has been named Chamber of the Year for its high level of activity, innovative ideas, and positive engagement with members and the local community. The awards, hosted by Chambers Ireland and sponsored by Zurich, recognise the outstanding work of chambers of commerce throughout the country in supporting local, regional and national business. President of Chambers Ireland, Margaret Considine, said the award for Cork is a testament to the scale of work being undertaken by the Chamber. "It reflects the huge amount of talent and dedication within the Chamber and underlines how impressively they have managed and adapted their activity to meet the needs of their members." "What truly impressed our judges was how much Cork Chamber engaged with its members. This is a group of strong communicators, relationship builders and people who care deeply about the businesses of Cork. The Chamber produced a series of excellent events, projects and lobbying campaigns which undoubtedly contributed positively to the city and surrounding region." Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber, welcomed the honour. "Cork is on a powerful trajectory. With transformative transport projects underway and an increasingly dynamic business ecosystem, our city and county are embracing a period of progress and promise. We believe in the strength of every region, and the value each brings to our national success. Smart, innovative thinking is essential to ensuring that Cork and Ireland remain competitive and attractive for both indigenous enterprise and foreign direct investment.' Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said the recognition is grounded in the work, insight and passion of our members. "Everything we do is informed by their experience, shaped by their ideas and inspired by their commitment to Cork's future." "We are also deeply proud of our dedicated Chamber team, whose professionalism and energy bring our vision to life every day. This award is a reflection of their unwavering commitment to delivering real impact for our members and the wider region."
Irish Examiner
28-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Entries open for this year's Cork Digital Marketing Awards
The Cork Digital Marketing Awards is set to return once again this year to celebrate the digital excellence driving business growth and brand visibility across the region. Officially launched by Cork Chamber on Wednesday, the awards honour the talent, innovation and strategy that have supported Cork's digital marketing landscape. Open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, the awards span 17 diverse categories, including Best in Content Creation, Best Website and platform-specific awards for social media excellence. 'Digital transformation continues to reshape how businesses connect with their audiences and Cork companies are at the forefront of that shift," said Rob Horgan, president of Cork Chamber. "From solo innovators to large-scale teams, the level of talent and strategic thinking we see in the Cork region is truly exceptional. These awards are about recognising that success and championing those who are pushing boundaries.' Annie FitzGibbon, director of member services at Cork Chamber, added: 'Each year, the Cork Digital Marketing Awards evolve to reflect the platforms, tools and strategies that are shaping the future of business. "The categories highlight the important role digital plays not just in marketing, but in driving business growth and community impact across Cork.' The Irish Examiner returns as Media Partner for 2025, offering the winner of the prestigious Digital Marketing Legend award a Content Studio Package to elevate their brand story across the Irish Examiner's digital channels. The awards will also be celebrated in partnership with the Marketing Institute Ireland, Cork. Sandra Carey, Senior Marketing Executive at Irish Examiner and The Echo, said: 'We are proud to support the Cork Digital Marketing Awards and the brilliant work happening across the region. These awards showcase not only marketing excellence but also the deep creativity and results-driven thinking behind successful campaigns. "Through the Content Studio collaboration, we look forward to amplifying the story of this year's Digital Marketing Legend and helping them reach new audiences through our platforms.' The Cork Digital Marketing Awards 2025 are now open for entries, with the awards ceremony scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025. Businesses, organisations and individuals across the Cork region are encouraged to submit their work, with the closing date for entries being Wednesday, July 9.
