Accountants predict business difficulties

ONE-IN-FOUR Irish accountants believe Ireland will become a more difficult place to do business over the next year.

This is according to the first Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA) Business Barometer, which also said the level of confidence among the accountancy profession is high.

Almost two-thirds of those surveyed are predicting further improvements over the next year.

President of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Michael F Dolan, said: “Irish accountants are positive about the business environment, with a majority reporting a higher level of confidence than this time last year.

“Twice as many of our members regard Ireland as a supportive place to do business, but looking forward, over a quarter believe that Ireland will become a more difficult place to do business over the next 12 months.”

The Business Barometer shows the main issues of concern for accountants are staff availability and retention, pay levels, and cost control. For accountants in practice the single biggest issue business is the scope of Government regulation. Nearly 80% of respondents cited lack of broadband availability as a major issue for Irish business.

Meanwhile, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland (ICAI) annual report published yesterday shows membership has passed the 15,000 mark.

Recruitment reached 1,245 last year, up 13% on the 2004 figure.