ISME pleased with Action Plan for Jobs 2017

The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) has welcomed the government’s new plan to create jobs and maintain business competitiveness in the backdrop of the UK’s EU referendum vote.

The ISME believes the government’s commitment to creating up to 45,000 new jobs in 2017 is commendable and that it’s a realistic goal providing the right environment for business growth is created.

Neil McDonnell, CEO, ISME, also welcomed support for SMEs – as recommended by ISME – within the government’s Action Plan in light of the UK’s EU referendum decision to leave the European Union.

“We welcome many of the measures announced in the Action Plan for Jobs, particularly those that focus on enhancing innovation and competitiveness, and dealing with Brexit,” said McDonnell.

“The Government’s commitment on delivering 45,000 new jobs by the end of the year is achievable, provided the right environment is created for businesses.

“This is attainable by reducing the cost of living, creating better access to finance and removing burdensome business costs.

“Brexit has created uncertainty for many businesses, particularly SMEs. Many of our members are experiencing a decline in business confidence, dropping from 23 per cent in Q3 to 16 per cent in Q4.

“SMEs need leadership, support and certainty to deal with the precarious nature of Brexit. The measures introduced in the Action Plan for Jobs such as the additional €3m for Enterprise Ireland in dealing with Brexit and the financial supports introduced to help exporting firms mitigate the impact of Brexit are positive.”

Date published 13 Feb 2017 | Last updated 13 Feb 2017