Cork Chamber outlines business priorities for Budget 2025 in meeting with Minister for Finance
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers as part of the Minster’s visit to Cork today. Chamber representatives from across the Cork region and key sectors joined in the meeting to discuss the current business landscape in Cork with the Minister, as well as key priorities for Budget 2025.
President of Cork Chamber Rob Horgan said, “We very much welcome the opportunity to meet with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers in Cork today. With Budget 2025 fast approaching, we had a fruitful discussion regarding the key issues for businesses here in Cork and across the country. Cork – Ireland’s fastest growing city region – is at a turning point presently, with considerable population growth and economic development anticipated in the coming years.”
The key business priorities for Budget 2025 identified by Cork Chamber are housing, competitiveness, infrastructure investment, renewables and urban evolution. The Chamber has also called on Government to prioritise investment in skills and talent, and promoting social and environmental sustainability.
Minister Jack Chambers said, “I was delighted to engage with Cork Chamber on my visit to the county. We discussed a range of topics including areas of priority for the Chamber in Budget 2025 in terms of supporting business, growing enterprise and enhancing competitiveness. We also considered the longer-term needs of the city and the wider region, including infrastructure investment, the transition to renewable energy sources and upskilling in the workforce. I thank all the members for their constructive contributions and positive engagement.”
CEO of Cork Chamber, Conor Healy said, “The Cork city region is a key contributor to our economy, and offers immense opportunity for future growth. Our vision is to develop vibrant, inclusive cities that offer a wide range of amenities and are easily accessible to everyone. We urge the Government to implement Urban Evolution Deals, which would provide dedicated funding for local authorities, allowing them to allocate resources in ways that best address their unique needs. This approach will empower cities to capitalise on local assets, foster sustainable growth, and transform city-centre living into a reality.”
“We need to ensure the right environment to enable the region’s economy continues to thrive and remains an attractive location for business. I’m looking forward to Government delivering a final Budget that recognises that potential and supports its realisation by investing in critical infrastructure, prioritising safe and welcoming urban centres, and addressing the rising burden of costs for businesses.”
