Reduced Government Deficit and Pro-Enterprise Policies Key for Future Economic Growth
Following an extensive National Chamber Network Consultation, Chambers Ireland has today (14/02/11) said that the core agenda for the next Government must be to reduce the State’s annual budget deficit while also implementing policies that support job creation. The call was made as Ireland’s largest business representative organisation launched its General Election Business Manifesto under five areas:
- Restore Confidence and Competitiveness;
- Reform Local Government;
- Develop a Pro-Business Environment;
- Create Jobs and Enterprise; and
- Future Proof Our Economy.
Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive said, “The General Election on February 25th presents us with an opportunity to elect a Government with a fresh mandate to help get Ireland moving again. The core agenda must be to restore confidence, continue to focus on Ireland’s competitiveness, reduce the rates and cost burden for business and broaden the tax base.”
Restore Confidence and Competitiveness
“It is not sustainable to run a deficit of approx. €19bn per annum to fund current spending. The key issue will be to ensure that we are able to reduce our Government deficit and make the necessary adjustments to our national accounts without devastating the domestic economy.”
Reform Local Government
“Local Authority charges are the biggest fixed cost for many SME’s and it is vital that they fall. Successive reports have identified cost-saving measures – for example the Local Government Efficiency Review Group identified €511m savings – which should in turn be passed back to businesses in the form of reduced rates and other charges.”
Develop a Pro-Business Environment
“The announcement by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation last week to review Employment Regulation Orders (ERO) and Registered Employment Agreements (REA) is welcome; however more needs to be done to develop a pro-business environment.”
Create Jobs and Support Enterprise
“The Government must be proactive in supporting and incentivising employers to take on new staff. This could be achieved through a reduction in the current rate of Employers PRSI and the expansion of the Employer Job (PRSI) Incentive Scheme to include all new employment created for a period of two years instead of the current twelve months.”
Future Proof Our Economy
“While we are all focussed on stabilising our economy, the new Government must not lose sight of Ireland’s future needs. All strategic policies introduced during the lifetime of the Government must be future proofed to ensure that short-term gains do not crowd out long-term needs.”
“In the midst of a significant global downturn, Irish exports have grown. Department of Finance figures show an annual increase of over 10% reaching a total value of €161bn in 2010. This is a very positive development for Ireland. It is imperative that the new Government regardless of their political make-up do all they can to ensure that Ireland continues to focus on growing jobs, improving competitiveness, and getting Ireland back on track,” Talbot concluded.
A copy of the Manifesto can be downloaded here:
http://www.chambers.ie/attachments/Election%202011%20Business%20Manifesto.pdf |
