CEO Update: The importance of Budget 2026
Dear member,
As we look ahead to Tuesday’s Budget, its importance for both our members and the wider economy cannot be overstated.
Throughout our Budget campaign, we have emphasised the need to balance caution with ambition. Ireland’s economy combines strong fundamentals with serious competitiveness challenges, including US tariffs, infrastructure deficits, and an acute housing shortage. While some argue for restraint to avoid overheating, Ireland’s low debt, budget surpluses, and growing population make the case for sustained investment in housing, infrastructure, skills, and innovation to futureproof the types of resilience we have experienced over the past number of years.
We will provide our analysis of Budget 2026 for members and host a special Budget webinar on Tuesday. You can register here.
Following the Budget announcement, our focus will be on engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure commitments are delivered through the Finance Bill and beyond.
Amid global uncertainties, we were also pleased to get an international perspective when we welcomed Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to Ibec this week. Governor Walz shared timely insights on the US political and investment outlook. Governor Walz reaffirmed the importance of the US-Ireland trading relationship and underscored the opportunities for collaboration between Ireland, Minnesota, and the broader transatlantic business community.
Finally, tomorrow marks the launch of Ireland’s first-ever National Manufacturing Day, a new Ibec initiative celebrating the innovation, skills, and opportunities within our world-class manufacturing sector. Over 50 companies nationwide will open their doors to students, educators, jobseekers, and local communities, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at careers in manufacturing. At a time of increasing pressure for many businesses, it is vital to recognise and champion the strengths of this dynamic sector and what it has to offer for future talent.
Best regards,
Danny McCoy,
Ibec CEO
