EU Presidency must showcase Ireland as attractive location for talent, Cork businesses say

Latest economic trend survey from Cork Chamber found that economic competitiveness and simplifying regulation was the top priority for Ireland’s EU Presidency

The majority of Cork businesses, around 78%, believe that EU membership has been beneficial to Irish businesses, with the Single Market cited as the biggest benefit.

Ireland needs to be showcased as an attractive location for talent and investment ahead of its upcoming EU Presidency, Cork businesses have said.

In its latest Economics Trends survey, Cork Chamber found that the vast majority of members were aware of the upcoming EU Presidency, with the majority of this cohort emphasising the need to showcase Irish business on the international stage.

The survey found that economic competitiveness through the EU Single Market and European trade policy, as well as simplifying EU regulation, is the top priority for Ireland’s EU Presidency.

The majority of Cork businesses, around 78%, believe that EU membership has been beneficial to Irish businesses, with the Single Market cited as the biggest benefit. It also found that 95% of respondents believe that Irish businesses will continue to benefit from EU membership in the medium to long term.

“The importance of EU membership and active participation in EU initiatives for Cork businesses is clear from this quarter’s survey results," said chamber president Rob Horgan. 

"With preparations for Ireland’s EU Presidency well underway, it is vital that businesses and communities across the country have an opportunity to engage with this important milestone in a meaningful way.

“EU membership presents a multitude of benefits for the business community, from participation in EU-funded projects to supporting opportunities for cross-border trade and talent mobility. Recognition of these benefits among Cork businesses is evident, with 95% of respondents agreeing that Irish businesses will continue to benefit from Ireland’s membership of the EU into the future.”

The survey, which is sponsored by PTSB, also found that confidence in the Irish economy continues to rise, with 80% of respondents expressing confidence in the economy in the final quarter of 2025. 

Speaking on this, business banking manager at PTSB, Auriol Kelly, said that many Cork businesses finished the year on a high, with strong levels of economic confidence and momentum a welcome sign as 2026 begins.

Meanwhile, Mr Horgan concluded: “It is encouraging to see such a high level of economic confidence among Cork’s business community as the new year begins. 2025 brought unprecedented challenges, particularly at an international level, however the results demonstrate the resilience of businesses and their ability to adapt effectively to a changing economic environment.”