By Ian Henry, President, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry The coronavirus pandemic has been a seismic shock to the economy – and as more and more of our members continue to reopen, we are under no illusions that things will go back to “business as usual” any time soon. In fact, any plans to […]

By Ian Henry, President, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As businesses continue to deal with the fallout from COVID-19, arguably the biggest economic shock on record, they also face another mammoth task over the next six months – the ending of the Brexit transition period. With many unknowns in terms of agreeing, understanding […]

The coronavirus pandemic has been a seismic shock to the economy – an unprecedented situation in both scale and impact. What we now understand is that we will not be going back to “business as usual” any time soon. First, we will have to learn to live and work in a ‘new normal’ as restrictions ease but […]

Since my contribution to this page just four weeks ago, the business landscape in Northern Ireland and indeed globally, has changed almost beyond recognition. The impact of COVID-19 has catapulted businesses leaders and employees into a place few could have prepared for.

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.