I am delighted to take on the role of NI Chamber President and look forward to working with Chief Executive Ann McGregor, the Board, Council and Executive team over the next 12 months.

As the UK begins its official departure from the European Union, and the 11-month transition period is triggered, business sentiment ranges from relief to trepidation. Like much of the public, the business community wants to move on from Westminster’s exhausting, political debates that have dominated the past three years, in turn damaging business confidence and […]

After three years of political paralysis, last week finally marked the long-awaited return of the NI Executive. This return to power-sharing has been welcomed by all pillars of society – business, community, unions, education and health, who earnestly hope it signals a long-term, sustainable future for devolved government in Northern Ireland. It focuses on delivering what matters to our citizens – better public services, a stronger economy and a fairer society.

As EU leaders agree to extend Brexit until 31 January 2020, our members are telling us that they are relieved and frustrated in equal measure. As frustrating as it will be for many, avoiding a messy departure is critical. A short extension which unlocks complexities and allows for a smooth transition is infinitely preferable to a no-deal exit.

At the Conservative Party Conference last week, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson set out an optimistic vision for the UK, calling on business and Government to work together to lift growth and tackle inequality. He outlined ambitions around infrastructure, skills, sustainability and trade. However what the Prime Minister must realise is that there’s a big difference between a list of buzz words and practical, real-world proposals that businesses can bank on in these turbulent times. These critical issues cannot remain hopeful ambitions, they require urgent, concrete action. They also rely on a good Brexit deal.

With two-thirds of NI Chamber member businesses deeply worried that there aren’t enough sufficiently skilled people to fill vacancies, the scale of the challenge to address skills shortages is becoming increasingly apparent.

For most businesses, the 31 October ‘flextension’ agreed by the European Council will be preferable to deadlines that are repeatedly moved forward at the last possible moment. But their frustration with this seemingly endless political process is palpable.

There is no doubt that businesses, and people in general, are tired and frustrated after three years of constant Brexit drama. Our future is no clearer today than it was weeks, even months ago – and that is unacceptable.

Northern Ireland’s business community, farming sector, trade unions and civic society were all united in their support of the Prime Minister’s draft withdrawal agreement.