Competitiveness

Turning to the question of ‘What is the biggest issue for Fingal’s competitiveness in the next six months?’

What will be the biggest issue for Fingal’s competitiveness in the next 6 months?

45% of businesses in Fingal said that the availability of housing is a serious issue for them.

Shortage of housing to buy or rent are serious issues for big companies in particular and some businesses in the region are seeking to purchase houses for accommodation for their staff.

The housing emergency in Ireland is at critical levels and while this is a common theme arising from other Chamber surveys around the country there is a real concern for Ireland’s reputation and the ability to attract further FDI as a consequence.

Fingal County Council’s Development Plan provides for affordable, social housing, build to rent and living cities scheme, vacant house refurbishment scheme and this is very much welcomed. However, there is a sense among the business community in Fingal that the pace of progress is frustratingly slow and the planning process adds to the exasperation of the situation.

Almost 21% of Fingal businesses cited the availability of skills and talent as their biggest challenge.

12% of respondents said public transport services or traffic congestion were at risks to the region’s competitiveness.

Some businesses also highlighted infrastructure such as water, energy and broadband as well as taxation levels as other areas impacting competitiveness in the region.

Fingal Chamber continues to work on these important areas with the Minister for Housing, Fingal County Council, the NTA, TFI and TII.