Cobh & Harbour business leaders highlight strategic infrastructure priorities ahead of Budget 2027

Business leaders from across Cork Harbour have highlighted the need for sustained investment in strategic infrastructure, connectivity, energy security and port development during an engagement with Jack Chambers T.D., Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, ahead of Budget 2027.

Hosted by Cobh and Harbour Chamber and sponsored by the Port of Cork Company, the business lunch took place at the Commodore Hotel, Cobh, on Friday, 4th September, bringing together representatives from industry, tourism, logistics and regional stakeholders from across Cork Harbour.

Minister Chambers’ attendance was particularly timely, given his key role in the Government’s preparations for Budget 2027 on 6th October. With infrastructure, public investment, connectivity and economic competitiveness among the issues of importance to businesses across the region, the event provided a valuable opportunity for the Cork Harbour business community to engage directly with the Government and share their priorities in the run-up to the Budget.

For Cork Harbour, infrastructure and connectivity remain critical to the region’s ability to support trade, attract investment and facilitate sustainable economic growth. The event provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of long-term investment in the infrastructure required to support businesses and communities across the region.

Colin Morehead, President of Cobh & Harbour Chamber, said: “We were delighted to welcome Minister Chambers to Cobh and to have the opportunity to bring our local business community together with a Minister who has such an important role in shaping Government policy on public expenditure and infrastructure. Our members want to see investment in infrastructure and connectivity that will allow Cobh and Cork Harbour to reach their full economic potential, and having the opportunity to engage directly with the Government on these issues is extremely valuable. Events such as this give our members a platform to raise the issues that matter to them and to ensure that the voice of the local business community is heard.” 

Paul Hegarty, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cork, said: “As a Port of National Significance and a key component of Ireland’s national critical national infrastructure, the Port of Cork is central to the State’s trade, energy security and economic resilience. Cork Harbour is uniquely positioned to support future growth in international trade, offshore renewable energy, tourism and industrial investment. Continued investment in port capacity, strategic transport connectivity, digital infrastructure and the safeguarding of strategic port lands will be essential if Ireland is to realise these opportunities and remain internationally competitive.”

Cobh & Harbour Chamber continues to provide a platform for local businesses to engage with key decision-makers and to ensure that the priorities of the Cobh and Cork Harbour business community are represented in wider economic and policy discussions.