Local and European elections 2024: Cork Chamber manifesto sets out priorities for election hopefuls

CORK Chamber has outlined what it sees as the priorities for Cork and the region in its newly launched Local and European Election Manifesto.

The chamber has identified eight priority areas in the manifesto: housing, urban evolution, talent and skills, renewables and energy system integration, sustainability and climate-neutral city, infrastructure and connectivity, supporting local business, and planning reform and speed of delivery.

“In 2024, running for election requires candidates that are ambitious for the region,” said Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy. “We need representatives who have a very clear understanding of the pressing policy issues that are impacting Cork, Ireland South, and Ireland.

“Representatives with a true commitment to improving local communities, the economy, and the environment will deliver the best outcomes.”

The chamber said that a 50% growth in population in Cork, which is a target set by the Government through Ireland 2040, will require a concerted effort to build houses; create around 75,000 jobs; deliver an enhanced public transport system; and provide a range of health, social, community, and cultural services.

Ahead of the local elections in June, Cork Chamber is calling for candidates to:

• Support urban evolution and increase housing-unit supply by forming a taskforce to explore solutions to the current barriers that prevent the conversion of vacant and derelict buildings into housing units;
• Formulate a coherent plan for Cork to capture the full value of offshore renewables;
• Support Cork as a sustainable city by securing funding to deliver on its Climate Neutral 2030 plan;
• Work to accelerate the delivery of all key projects including housing, public transport infrastructure, and key road projects;
• Support a pro-business environment by being conscious of the impact that policy decisions have on SMEs.

Mr Healy emphasised the importance of Cork Chamber’s 1,200 members, who between them employ around 120,000 people.

“We want our local and European candidates to be as ambitious for Cork as we are, and are calling for them to step up and match the ambition, drive, and determination of our member businesses,” he said.

“Through our constant engagement with our members, we have a unique understanding of the economic and social needs of business in Cork. This manifesto reflects their key priorities for the five years ahead.

“We are publishing our manifesto to help voters clarify the issues facing the businesses they work for and represent.

“A strong and balanced economy supports a balanced society.”