Dublin Chamber participated in this year's National Economic Dialogue, engaging directly with Ministers, officials and stakeholders across Government on the key issues affecting Dublin businesses. During discussions, we highlighted the need for a more robust SME test in policymaking, raised concerns about the cumulative impact of rising business costs and regulatory burdens, and emphasised the challenges posed by the Enhanced Reporting Requirements (ERR) for employers.
We also highlighted the low uptake of many enterprise support schemes, arguing that excessive complexity and administrative burdens are acting as barriers to participation. In addition, we reiterated our call for a reduction in Capital Gains Tax (CGT) for investments in actively trading unquoted companies to support entrepreneurship and indigenous business growth.
Following the publication of our Q2 Business Outlook Report, Dublin Chamber shared the findings with all Oireachtas members. The survey found that support for the proposed Dublin Tourist Levy (44%) exceeded opposition (29%), with businesses indicating they are open to its introduction where revenues are ringfenced and reinvested in Dublin. Read our press release here.
On critical infrastructure, Dublin Chamber welcomed the commencement of preparatory works on the Greater Dublin Drainage Project. As one of the region's most important infrastructure investments, the project will help unlock future housing development, support economic growth and ensure the Greater Dublin Area has the capacity needed to accommodate a growing population and workforce. We look forward to seeing continued progress on the project and on the wider infrastructure investments required to underpin Ireland's long-term competitiveness. Read our press release here.
Following the passing of the 7 June transposition deadline, Dublin Chamber submitted a letter to the Department of Children, Disability and Equality outlining business concerns regarding the implementation of the EU Pay Transparency Directive. While supporting the Directive’s objectives, we highlighted the continued lack of legislative clarity and practical guidance for employers and called for adequate lead-in time between the publication of final legislation and the commencement of compliance obligations. We also urged Government to avoid "gold-plating" the Directive by introducing requirements that exceed EU obligations, ensuring implementation remains proportionate, practical and does not place unnecessary administrative or compliance burdens on Irish employers. Read the letter here.
In addition to the above, we met with officials from the Department of Enterprise this week to discuss the Government's innovation agenda and the measures needed to support greater business investment in innovation, digitalisation and AI. Dublin Chamber highlighted the importance of accessible, business-focused supports that enable firms to adopt new technologies, improve productivity and strengthen competitiveness. We also stressed the need for increased investment in skills and workforce development to ensure businesses can fully harness the opportunities presented by AI and emerging technologies.