Following this week’s publication of the Summer Economic Statement by the Minister for Finance, County Kildare Chamber call on Government to ensure that funding commitments made under Project 2040 are delivered, regardless of Brexit outcome.
Speaking this week, Allan Shine, Chief Executive of the Chamber, acknowledged the extremely difficult scenario the Government faces this autumn and welcomes the two-scenario approach taken by the Minister.
“The continued uncertainty surrounding the UK’ s departure from the EU and the growing possibility of a no-deal Brexit make it enormously challenging for both business and the State to plan for the coming months and years. The economy is experiencing continuous growth with unemployment is at its lowest level since the height of the Celtic Tiger.
The economy cannot endure another “lost decade”, where investment in infrastructure and housing was minimal. Ongoing housing shortages, infrastructure deficits and the demands that the transition to a low carbon economy will entail, must be addressed in Budget 2020.
Our own Pre-Budget submission to Government will include a series of recommendations that will put productivity and inclusion at heart of how we can grow the economy in a sustainable way.
We look forward to launching our pre budget submission in September with our corporate partners in The Dail which will give the Chamber the opportunity to discuss the issues facing business currently.
Sustainable infrastructure that supports affordable homes which are appropriate to the needs of a young, growing population is essential to the prosperity and wellbeing of Kildare which is experiencing considerable growth in terms of our population. Improving construction sector productivity is central to our budget recommendations and must be at the heart of Budget 2020.
Our transition to a low carbon economy must be supported by immediately ring-fencing the current revenue from carbon taxes so that they can be invested in public transport, retrofitting, and green energy infrastructure.
Improving workforce participation will require the creation of a flexible workplace that works for families, specifically we are calling for the government to develop a set of guidelines to support flexible working, and greater access to affordable quality childcare”.