This week, Chambers Ireland and representatives from the Chamber Network were in Brussels, where we engaged with the European Commission, the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU, and Irish MEPs.
Chambers Ireland reported:
In today's geopolitical climate, the shift towards competitiveness is timely. As discussed with Commissioner Michael McGrath, as the European Union focuses on key recommendations from the Draghi and Letta reports from last year, Irish companies stand to benefit by enhancing their resilience and securing supply chains.
Actions are already underway at the EU level to address the competitiveness challenge. Tadhg O'Briain discussed initiatives like the Affordable Energy Action Plan, which aims to deliver affordability, security, and sustainability for citizens and businesses throughout the Single Market.
Equally important are efforts to diversify markets and advance the Free Trade agenda, which Nuno Sousa highlighted as being crucial for providing certainty for businesses. Additionally, Paul Kreis emphasised the importance of a coordinated approach to security and defence, including cyber security, in an ever-changing world.
The Chambers network also visited the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU, which is currently planning for Ireland’s presidency of the European Union and ensures that Irish interests are effectively represented as files are negotiated.
To conclude the visit, Seán Kelly MEP hosted the Chambers netwwork at the European Parliament, with a robust discussions with MEPs on EU priorities, along with enhancing IP protection for businesses and facilitating infrastructure delivery.
While significant progress is being made to bridge the competitiveness gap, we look forward to further developments. This includes reducing the regulatory burden, developing skills for the Twin Transition, investing in innovation, and delivering the Capital Markets Union.
Reflecting on the visit, we are confident that with the renewed focus on competitiveness, Irish businesses - including SMEs - can continue to compete effectively within the Single Market.
