Competitiveness is key to Cork’s future

Cork must be future-fit, investment-ready and above all, competitive.

Those were the words of Rob Horgan as he began his second year as Cork Chamber President following its AGM on Monday where he delivered a clear message that Cork’s ability to compete on the national and global stage depends on decisive action across housing, infrastructure, education and international engagement.

He said sustaining this competitiveness requires coordinated focus on quality of life, talent retention and the built environment, not just in policy, but in practical delivery.

He explained: “Housing availability, transport infrastructure, education and the vibrancy of our urban centres are not separate issues. They are the foundations of our economic competitiveness. If Cork is to attract the investment and talent that fuels growth, these must be addressed with urgency and ambition.”

Housing was identified as the most immediate challenge and Mr Horgan called for systemic reform to unlock supply across Cork city and county, noting that between 7,500 and 10,000 homes per year are needed to keep pace with demand.

He welcomed Cork City Council’s recent Living over the shop initiative as an important step in making better use of existing urban space.

On infrastructure, Mr Horgan said there was real momentum behind some long-supported Cork Chamber priorities like the M28 motorway project which has entered its construction phase.

The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme is advancing with dual-tracking to Midleton and upgrades at Kent Station. The Cork Light Rail project also reached a major milestone, with the publication of its emerging preferred route from Ballincollig to Mahon Point.

He said these projects are not just welcome but essential and directly impact life, work and how competitive the region can be in the years ahead.

He also highlighted the importance of continued investment in education as a critical enabler of long-term economic growth. On the global stage, Mr Horgan reaffirmed Cork Chamber’s commitment to international engagement amid geopolitical uncertainty.

The AGM also saw the appointment of Susie Horgan, Springboard Communications, as Vice President and David Swinburne, Mazars, as Honorary Secretary while Anne-Marie Linehan, J.W. O’Donovan Solicitors and Noreen Walsh, AIB Cork, were elected to the board.

Outgoing board members Raymond Kelleher, Paul Hourican, Ronan Murray and Brian Fitzgerald were thanked for their valued service.