Industry needs aid over energy crisis

IRISH industry is in the grip of an energy crisis and the Budget must address imbalances in the cost of energy and the loss of competitiveness due to rising oil prices, says the Irish Medical Devices Association (IMDA).

The sector employs more than 26,000 people in Ireland and exports €6 billion worth of products every year.

IMDA director Sharon Higgins said: “While Ireland continues to win significant new investments in this sector, our energy costs are now significantly out of line with our international competitors. Budget 2007 is the vehicle to make the necessary fiscal adjustments for Irish business. The scope, extent and impact of rising energy costs is undermining Ireland’s cost base and eroding business confidence,” she said.