Chambers of Commerce from around the country gathered in Dublin yesterday (Wednesday, 26 September 2018)  for the first Chamber Network Budget Dialogue, facilitating engagement between Chambers and their representative TDs on the forthcoming Budget.

Speaking this morning, Shannon Chamber Chief Executive Helen Downes commented: “Budget 2019 is the first following the finalisation of Project Ireland 2040 and it is crucial that investments announced in the National Development Plan are delivered upon. This is also the last Budget before the UK leaves the European Union and therefore our last opportunity to ensure that there is adequate finance to support business through the volatile periods to come. Today we met with TDs from across the political spectrum and all parts of the country to advocate for the need for this investment and for ongoing support for SMEs in {insert county/region here] ahead of Brexit. This means retaining 9% VAT and ensuring there is adequate funds and supports for business ahead of Brexit.”

Speaking at the event, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said: “Although the country is in a strong position, we cannot afford to be complacent. Budget 2019 is an opportunity to prepare for any difficulties ahead. Through investment and careful planning, Government can ensure that our economic prosperity is sustainable and that we are prepared to weather all threats on the horizon.”

Chambers of Commerce from around the country gathered in Dublin yesterday (Wednesday, 26 September 2018)  for the first Chamber Network Budget Dialogue, facilitating engagement between Chambers and their representative TDs on the forthcoming Budget.

Speaking this morning, Shannon Chamber Chief Executive Helen Downes commented: “Budget 2019 is the first following the finalisation of Project Ireland 2040 and it is crucial that investments announced in the National Development Plan are delivered upon. This is also the last Budget before the UK leaves the European Union and therefore our last opportunity to ensure that there is adequate finance to support business through the volatile periods to come. Today we met with TDs from across the political spectrum and all parts of the country to advocate for the need for this investment and for ongoing support for SMEs in {insert county/region here] ahead of Brexit. This means retaining 9% VAT and ensuring there is adequate funds and supports for business ahead of Brexit.”

Speaking at the event, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot said: “Although the country is in a strong position, we cannot afford to be complacent. Budget 2019 is an opportunity to prepare for any difficulties ahead. Through investment and careful planning, Government can ensure that our economic prosperity is sustainable and that we are prepared to weather all threats on the horizon.”

Helen Downes , CEO and Ian Barrett, director, Shannon Chamber meet with Pat Breen TD, Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Timmy Dooley TD and Jan O’Sullivan during Chambers Ireland Budget Dialogue in Dublin. Photo: ‘Finbarr O’Rourke NO REPREO FREE’