Cork, Dublin and Northern Ireland Chambers Launch Tri-Region Partnership Agenda to Boost All-Island

Cork Chamber, Dublin Chamber and Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly launched the Tri-Region Partnership Agenda, unveiling a shared roadmap for strengthening economic connectivity, investment and innovation across the island of Ireland. The launch which brought together business leaders, academics, key regional stakeholders and policymakers was part of a two day series of engagements and discussions focused on unlocking opportunity through collaboration.

The Partnership sets out a clear purpose: to enhance all-island business connectivity and regional economic collaboration through coordinated advocacy, strategic investment shared economic ambition and tangible actions. Its newly launched agenda focuses on:

• Delivering higher-speed rail links between Cork, Dublin and Belfast

• Restoring direct air connectivity between Cork and Belfast

• Securing long-term port investment to support trade and offshore renewable development

• Building all-island innovation clusters in sectors such as life sciences, fintech and clean energy

• Strengthening tourism links and a shared modern brand for the island

Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development, Jerry Buttimer TD welcomed the launch, stating, "Government is committed to balanced regional development, ensuring opportunity and growth is shared across the island. Higher-speed rail, offshore renewables, education and skills are national priorities, and partnerships like this add real momentum. Restoring connectivity, whether through aviation or advanced public transport, strengthens Ireland’s position as a place to invest, visit, and live."

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, "Cork is playing a central role in shaping Ireland’s economic future. We have many strengths in our region, and partnerships and collaboration enhance all of our opportunities. The Tri-Region agenda launch shows the ambition for growth across our regions. We face similar challenges and with joined up thinking and planning, our governments can unlock a more connected and prosperous island for all."

Suzanne Wylie, CEO of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, "This agenda is about unlocking shared opportunity. By focusing on key priorities such as connectivity, skills and innovation, the Tri-Region Partnership creates the conditions for businesses to thrive and for our regions to compete successfully on a global stage."

Mary Rose Burke, CEO of Dublin Chamber, said, "The launch of this document gives fresh momentum to the Tri-Region Partnership and sets a clear course for progress ahead. It strengthens our collective voice and demonstrates our shared determination to secure the investment, connectivity and policy support needed to ensure the island of Ireland remains a globally competitive and thriving place to do business."
 
The event marks a significant milestone in formalising collaboration between the three Chambers, providing a powerful platform to influence policy and champion the needs of the island’s major business centres.