CEO Update: Consistency in the Face of Uncertainty Building Coalitions at Home and Abroad

Dear Member,

Since the beginning of the year, there has been a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape. Relationships and alliances are being re-examined, priorities are changing, and the rules of engagement are evolving.

This is borne out by the findings of our CEO survey, published this week. Unsurprisingly, it found that concerns over international trade and the risk of tariffs have increased since 2024, making them a key external priority for CEOs. (You can learn more about what’s top of mind for CEOs in Ireland by listening to the most recent episode of Ibec Responds here.)

In light of this uncertainty, it is more critical than ever that Ibec fully leverages its position as a trusted stakeholder both domestically and internationally.

Earlier this week, I represented our members’ interests at the inaugural Government Trade Forum. Chaired by Tánaiste Simon Harris and attended by officials from the Departments of the Taoiseach, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Enterprise, and Agriculture, the forum is focused on safeguarding the Irish economy from trade-related challenges. I am pleased to say that this issue is a real priority for the Government, and I look forward to providing you with updates from the planned regular meetings.

Building on this important engagement, members of the Ibec board and leadership team will visit New York and Washington, D.C., on 10 March. Our week long programme focuses on U.S. Government engagement, with meetings planned with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and a range of strategic U.S. business partners. We will also be joined by key business and political stakeholders at our annual dinner in Washington, D.C., on 12 March.

Alignment with our European partners is the cornerstone of any international engagement. Later in the month, on 19 March, we are hosting briefing events for our members with the European Commission, the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU, and networking opportunities with Irish MEPs and their policy advisors. This will culminate in our annual Ibec St. Patrick’s reception in the European Parliament, hosted by Seán Kelly MEP.

Next week in Liverpool, I will join with our colleagues from the Confederation of British Industry to provide input to the UK-Ireland summit and ensure that the views of the business community are reflected in both the east-west and north-south aspects of this important bilateral social, cultural and economic relationship.

Despite the uncertainty, I am confident that we will continue to deliver for our members. Ibec’s unique strength lies in its ability to build broad coalitions of stakeholders and communicate a clear, consistent message that best represents the interests of Ireland Inc. at home and abroad.

As always, please do let me know if you have any feedback.

Regards,

Danny McCoy
CEO
Ibec