CEO Update: Ahead of the General Election Ibec presents new manifesto analysis on business priorities
Dear member,
The week of the General Election offers a unique opportunity to reflect on Ibec’s achievements over the last four and a half years and to look optimistically to the future about what we can achieve in the next Dáil term.
Despite the combined challenges of Covid, Brexit and the economic impact of the war in Ukraine, working constructively with the current Government, Ibec has ensured our members’ priorities are at the heart of policy making in Ireland. Both in the recent budget and in the years since the last election, Government has listened to business and implemented important supports and delivered essential investment in skills and infrastructure to support enterprise and the economy. While most economies across Europe are struggling, Ireland’s continues to thrive.
As you will be aware, in September Ibec launched its election manifesto outlining the business priorities for the next government. Our campaign has highlighted complacency - particularly concerning future business growth - as a significant risk ahead of the election.
It noted that the global landscape for Irish exporters is likely to become increasingly challenging and the competition to attract new investment is expected to intensify during the next government's term.
Ahead of the election on Friday, we have conducted a detailed analysis of the manifestos of the business priorities of the six major political parties in Ireland which is available here.
We welcome the strong emphasis placed on cost competitiveness in party manifestos and throughout the election campaign.
Ibec is encouraged by the broad consensus around introducing a PRSI rebate for businesses to offset rising costs - a measure we proposed to support businesses most vulnerable to these pressures. Our campaign for a review of energy policy and measures to address high electricity costs is also well reflected in the manifestos.
While parties differ on the specifics, there is a growing recognition of the need to reform the personal taxation system, particularly regarding thresholds for higher income tax rates. Given the growing global uncertainty it is vital that the next Government ensures that our personal tax system remains competitive.
However, heartened by the strength of the campaign to date and the analysis of the manifestoes, we are optimistic that more will be achieved for our members in the next Programme for Government.
Kind regards,
Danny,
Ibec CEO
