On 8^th January, Dublin Chamber launched its Q4 Business Outlook Report, sharing insights with TDs, Senators, Dublin Councillors and senior officials across the Departments of Enterprise, Finance and Public Expenditure. We highlighted ongoing pressures facing Dublin firms operating in a persistently high-cost environment, compounded by regulatory and administrative burdens. We also shared findings on hybrid and remote working, noting that most Dublin firms now operate a hybrid model with core in-office days. While most firms see no productivity difference between remote and hybrid work, those that do express a view are more likely to report higher productivity in the office. Our report can be read in full here.

On 20^th January, we met with Joe Neville T.D in Leinster House to discuss priorities for businesses across the Greater Dublin Area. With Dublin’s functional urban area extending into Meath, Wicklow and Kildare, we discussed commuter challenges, growing congestion, and concerns around the diversion of funding from shovel-ready public transport projects. We look forward to continued engagement on these issues.

During January, Dublin Chamber made a submission to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) on its Draft Determination for Revenue Control 4 (RC4), which will set Uisce Éireann’s allowed revenue and investment programme for 2025–2029. While recognising the need for increased investment, we raised concerns about the cumulative impact of non-domestic charge increases on business competitiveness. We stressed the need for efficiency, accountability, and delivery of real capacity in Dublin, particularly through projects such as Greater Dublin Drainage and the Eastern and Midlands Water Supply Project. Read our submission here. 

This month, we welcomed Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, to address members. Discussions addressed key issues affecting Dublin businesses, including the continued rollout of high-visibility policing, civil reform legislation, migration, and safety in the city core. We reiterated our support for the Dublin City Taskforce recommendations and the need to ensure that Dublin remains a safe and welcoming city to all who live, visit and work here. We look forward to further engagement with the Minster this year.

Dublin Chamber is represented on the Government’s Cost of Doing Business Advisory Group, which examines the cost of doing business in Ireland and identifies measures to reduce pressures on firms. At the latest meeting, we raised concerns about rising legal and compliance costs, the impact of “no foal, no fee” cases on claims activity and insurance costs, and how regulatory complexity can unintentionally drive additional legal activity. We emphasised the need for proportionate regulation and strong oversight to avoid unnecessary cost burdens on business.