As part of its support to members, IBEC provides advice and insight on the wider social issues that affect business. The aim of IBEC’s social policy unit is to provide business with opportunities to interact with the wider community, while influencing the development of relevant national policy. The scope of social policy is wide and includes the areas of employment, equality, immigration and sustainability.

How we develop social policy

IBEC has two policy committees that support the development of social policy. The IBEC Human Resources and Social Policy Committee (HRSPC) meets quarterly to track and address changes in employment law and other workplace issues. For further information about the group please contact Kara McGann.

The Sustainable Enterprise Group (SEG) addresses the wider social, economic and environmental challenges that affect the competitiveness of Irish business. It acts as an interface with wider civil society and government, and discusses areas like corporate responsibility, governance, social enterprise and climate change. For further information about this group contact Finola McDonnell.

IBEC is also a social partner representing Irish business and employers in discussions with the government and unions on a wide range of social issues. As part of the social partnership process IBEC engages with a range of policy making bodies. These include the National Economic and Social Council, the National Economic and Social Forum and the Centre for Partnership and Performance.