03-07-2025
Housing, security and rising costs among key issues raised by Cork business group ahead of Budget 2026
Cork Business Association (CBA) President Dave O'Brien has commended what he calls a "positive momentum" in recent months, but said key challenges must be addressed in Budget 2026 to protect Cork City.
Publishing its pre-Budget submission on Thursday, the group lists business costs, Garda numbers and investment in public transport as the main issues facing Cork, with the most urgent concern being the need for increased housing.
"The housing crisis features as the number one priority in the CBA's recommendations," the business group said. "Despite various Government interventions, significant gaps remain in housing delivery, especially in Cork City."
Among its recommendations are calls to expand the Living City Initiative by relaxing eligibility criteria, introducing a new Apartment Living Initiative to incentivise the construction of modern apartment blocks, adjusting tax treatment to make refurbishment and redevelopment projects more financially viable, and enhancing the Help-to-Buy scheme to include renovations of vacant or derelict properties.
'If the Government fails to act decisively now, re-election will be a tough ask,' the proposal said.
Business costs
In light on ongoing closures across the city, the CBA is urging the Government to follow through on its commitment to reduce VAT for food-related services, as well as supporting small businesses amid ongoing wage reform.
Insurance costs also remain a major concern, the CBA said, urging the Government to improve market competition and underwriting capacity.
The group also highlighted that businesses are struggling to meet the increasing costs of energy, asking the Government to conduct a full review into market charges associated with energy bills.
Other suggestions include reducing Capital Gains Tax from 33% to 20% to align with EU averages, and refinements to the Employment and Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS) to better support early-stage companies and mitigate investor risk.
Security
While commending recent initiatives such as Community Safety Wardens pilot, the group said the city needs a significant increase in Gardaí numbers.
The submission also calls for a review of the current court system to explore alternatives to having guards on duty being held up in court all day, such as the use of affidavits, that could help return more Gardaí to front-line duties in the city centre.
'We're proud of what has been achieved over the past year through collaboration,' Mr O'Brien said.
"But Budget 2026 presents an opportunity to take practical steps that will support small businesses, increase housing supply, and enhance public safety.
"These changes will help ensure Cork's momentum is maintained. The time for incremental adjustments has passed. What we need now is bold, transformative policy intervention.'
