More to do for cost-competitiveness

MUCH done — more to do. That’s the verdict on the cost of doing business in Ireland, according to the latest study by the National Competitiveness Council.

The annual report, published yesterday, finds that while there have been significant improvements in cost competitiveness over the last two years, further progress is needed. The study also finds that cost reductions have resulted primarily from cyclical factors like the collapse in consumer demand, both at home and abroad.

“Costs in Ireland are moving in the right direction and as a result Ireland has become a more attractive location to do business, but we cannot rest on the oars,” said NCC chairman, Dr Don Thornill.