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Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy, Chartered Accountants Ireland said “Today’s revised National Development Plan (NDP) is a strong statement of intent towards securing Ireland’s competitiveness in the coming decade. It is encouraging to see such significant emphasis on addressing housing over the next five years. 1 in 4 SMEs surveyed by Chartered Accountants Ireland in April reported that their business has lost employees or seen prospective employees unable to take a role due to the unavailability of affordable housing. “Housing is only one element of the puzzle, however. We know the critical levers to delivery also include energy and water, so these significant deficits in the State’s infrastructure need to be addressed holistically if Ireland is to fully realise its ambition of becoming a place where businesses can thrive. Today’s announcements are a step in the right direction. “Another of the most frequent barriers encountered by our 40,000 members is access to childcare. Despite featuring as a key commitment in the Programme for Government, the revised NDP lacks detail on how more childcare places will be created for working parents. Greater priority must be given to an issue that so fundamentally affects the labour market. “As an all-island body, the Institute also welcomes the focus in the NDP on the Shared Island Fund, and we look forward to engaging with stakeholders on how the NDP will deliver cross-border infrastructure projects.”

Northern Ireland should be excluded from UK Government proposals to restrict the benefit of two key Inheritance Tax reliefs; agricultural property relief and business property relief, because of the disproportionate impact this is already having on the region’s agricultural sector and family-owned businesses. Chartered Accountants Ireland, the largest professional body on the island of Ireland, which represents over 5,000 members in Northern Ireland reiterated its position after the Government published draft legislation for the next Finance Bill. As announced last October, from April 2026, 100% relief will be limited to the first £1 million of combined agricultural and business property, with any value above this receiving relief at 50%, effectively resulting in an inheritance tax liability of 20%. Director of Members and Advocacy at Chartered Accountants Ireland, Cróna Clohisey said: “Yesterday on ‘L-day’, the Government published the draft Finance Bill clauses for this policy change which confirms, disappointingly, that they will commence from April 2026 as planned. On behalf of members, this Institute has engaged extensively with Government to emphasise the impact this will have in Northern Ireland. Farming is the biggest industry in NI, and farms and family-owned businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. “We recognise that in the current geopolitical and economic environment, difficult decisions are necessary, however, we feel that the impact of these changes has not been fully considered on a regional basis and will hit Northern Ireland harder. It is already causing forced, premature business sales and the loss of jobs, lives and livelihoods. Although we have some of the highest land prices in the UK, what the government has failed to grasp is that land values here do not correlate to the income generated. Any value is tied up in land and assets, not cash.” Data from the NI Assembly already suggests that by 2026 these changes will affect approximately 75 percent of dairy farms in Northern Ireland, which account for 60 percent of owned land and provide the majority of food production in NI. Clohisey continued: “Ultimately the Government is taking a broad-brush approach to address specific concerns that ‘non-farmers’ are investing in land to avoid inheritance tax. As a result, they are missing the opportunity to reframe this policy and include a range of mitigations to protect genuine farming activity and family-owned businesses.” Chartered Accountants Ireland is urging the Government to find a way to introduce a carve out for agricultural and family-owned business sectors in Northern Ireland. If there is not a willingness to do so, the Institute is calling on the Government to amend the draft legislation to include a range of mitigations. This would enable the Government to target this policy more effectively and reduce its negative impact before the legislation begins its journey through Parliament after the summer recess. ENDS

Institute representatives Judith Condell and Cróna Clohisey attended the launch of the third Annual Report of the Women in Finance Charter. The Institute is proud to be one of 100 signatories to the Charter: an industry-led and Government supported initiative aimed at increasing women's participation at all levels of business in financial services in Ireland. The Report was launched at an event in Dublin by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin with Minister of State Robert Troy and is an important milestone highlighting the significant progress that has been made since the Charter was established in 2022. For example, since the first organisations signed up: 43.4% of senior management roles in signatory firms are now held by women – up from 36.2% Female board representation has risen from 30.3% to 36.3% CEO-level representation has increased from 19.4% to 22.6% The Institute believes in and is committed to gender diversity at all levels of our organisation, and is proud to be a signatory to the Charter. As Ireland strives for greater inclusion and competitiveness, this Charter is a powerful driver of change.  The Report can be read in full here.

Last week, the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary T.D. launched a major national awareness campaign for the new Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings System, called ‘My Future Fund’. In addition to the campaign, information resources are also available including a dedicated online hub and information videos. The available resources provide details on how auto enrolment will work, who will be auto enrolled, contribution rates and relevant information for employers and employee. Announcing the launch of the campaign, Minister Calleary said: “I believe that My Future Fund will transform how people save for their retirement. This landmark policy will help hundreds of thousands of hardworking people in Ireland put money aside for their life after work. Auto Enrolment has been talked about for decades. I am delighted that this is finally happening. My Future Fund will mean that two-out-of-three private sector employees who currently have no supplementary pension will get to enjoy a greater sense of wellbeing and financial freedom in the future."

In a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament by the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, it is confirmed that draft clauses for the next Finance Bill will be published next week on Monday 21 July 2025. These are expected to cover pre-announced policy changes (there are no details of precisely what though) and will include “accompanying explanatory notes, tax information and impact notes, responses to consultations and other supporting documents”. This is traditionally known as legislation day or ‘L-day’. Coverage of L-day will feature in Chartered Accountants Tax News in due course. It remains unclear precisely which policy changes we may see draft legislation published for next week, particularly if drafting is still in progress for areas such as recent consultations or where decisions are still being made on the final details of specific policies. There is, however, some speculation that we may see draft clauses for the controversial changes to inheritance tax, including the curtailing of agricultural property relief and business property relief. The Institute has previously written to the Government on this and also responded to the technical consultation which took place earlier this year.

In Irish news this week, Revenue has revised its guidance on the VAT waiver of exemption following the High Court decision in the Killarney Consortium case and Revenue has also updated its guidance on Relevant Contracts Tax (RCT) to clarify the application of RCT on contracts involving both the sale of land and provision of construction services. In UK news, the latest Tax Gap data has been published and HMRC is seeking agent volunteers to take part in testing during phase two of delivery of its Import One Stop Shop system. In International news, the European Commission has published its annual report on taxation. Irish 1. Revenue has updated its guidance on the collection of cancellation amounts arising from the cancellation of a waiver following the High Court’s judgment in the Killarney Consortium C v Revenue Commissioners case. 2. Read the updated guidance published by Revenue on the RCT treatment of contracts that involve both construction services and land sales. UK 3. The 2023/24 Tax Gap data has been published by HMRC. 4. Are you an agent involved in filing Import One Stop System (IOSS) returns and payments on behalf of clients? HMRC is seeking agents to participate in testing during phase 2 of delivery of the IOSS system. Read about what you can expect and how to get involved. International 5. Read the Annual return on taxation 2025 which was recently published by the European Commission. Keep up to date with all the latest Irish, UK, and international tax developments through Chartered Accountants Ireland’s Tax Newsletter. Subscribe to the Tax News by updating your preferences in MyAccount. You can also read this week’s post EU exit corner here.  

Last week Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2025 Spending Review in Parliament which saw HMRC awarded an additional £0.5 billion in 2026/27 to make it a digital first organisation. The Spending Review sets planned spending totals for all UK Government departments from 2026/27 to 2028/29 inclusive in addition to investment spending plans until 2029/30. Although there were no specific tax announcements in the Spending Review, speculation now continues that there will be further tax rises in the Autumn Budget later this year given the spending and investment plans set out. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has now published a podcast setting out its analysis of the review whilst the Federation of Small Businesses says that the review lacked business focus. The House of Commons Treasury Committee subsequently announced an inquiry into the review. HMRC settlement The settlement includes additional funds of £0.5 billion in 2026/27 to “make HMRC a digital-first organisation”. This will be used to improve digital services and enable the use of AI to both assist taxpayers and improve productivity within HMRC.   Over the next three years, HMRC’s settlement is as follows: 2026/27: £7.3 billion, an increase from 2025/26 of £0.5 billion, 2027/28: £7.1billion, and 2028/29: £6.9 billion. By 2029/30:  90 percent of taxpayer interactions will be digital self-serve, up from the current 70 percent; and  HMRC will have reduced the number of letters it sends by 75 percent. HMRC will “eliminate all outbound post, with limited exceptions such as letters which generate revenue”.  However, it “will continue to ensure alternative channels, including phonelines, are still there for those who need them”.  The Institute looks forward to discussing how HMRC will achieve these very ambitious targets, including how inbound post will be treated, whilst also improving its current service levels as the taxpayer self-assessment population continues to grow because of fiscal drag. More information on this is expected to be available in the coming weeks when HMRC publishes its Digital Transformation Roadmap which was delayed from the spring pending the outcome of phase two of the 2025 Spending Review. The move to use more AI is interesting given recent comments by the Public Accounts Committee which said in a recent report that HMRC’s reliance on its legacy IT systems was restricting its use and development of AI. HMRC’s settlement also aims to enable the department to deliver the package of measures announced previously to close the tax gap including modernising HMRC’s use of data and recruiting an additional 5,500 compliance staff and 2,400 debt management staff.  Alongside the main Spending Review publications, HM Treasury also published ‘Spending Review 2025: Departmental Efficiency Plans’ which explains how different departments will deliver efficiencies. According to this, HMRC will deliver efficiencies of £773 million per year by 2028/29 in the following areas:  moving to digital services, improving and modernising its IT estate, continuous improvement and productivity which includes anticipated benefits from bringing the functions of the Valuation Office Agency within HMRC, restructuring its physical estate by consolidating offices into regional centres, exiting some sites and streamlining facilities contracts. By 2030, HMRC is aiming to have 85 percent of staff based outside London, and increasing focus on up-stream compliance to prevent errors from being made, rather than taking action after.

1 in 4 SMEs surveyed by Chartered Accountants Ireland in April reported that their business has lost employees or seen prospective employees unable to take a role due to the unavailability of affordable housing. This is evidence of the economic impact the housing crisis is now having according to the Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies – Ireland (CCAB-I), the umbrella group for professional accountants, as it published its 2026 Pre-Budget submission today.   The OECD has noted that Ireland’s housing stock lacks the flexibility to meet the increasing demand for housing, and only last Tuesday, the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) told the Oireachtas Committee on Housing that there will be no major uptick in housing supply in 2025 and 2026. CCAB-I notes this market failure, and calls for a targeted, time bound and regularly reviewed tax intervention to correct it.   Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy at Chartered Accountants Ireland said  “Viability of certain construction projects, namely apartments, student accommodation, and independent living facilities has been cast into sharp focus in recent months, with knock on impacts on the costs of rent, availability of student accommodation and the lack of options for downsizers. Recent data from the CSO shows that there was a drop of 24% in apartment completions from 2023 to 2024.   “October’s Budget should include tax measures to stimulate the development of such dwellings, but they need to be targeted, time-limited, and regularly reviewed to ensure that they are cost effective and do not repeat the mistakes of the past. We welcome the opportunity to discuss with government how tax might work as a lever in this regard.”    Regulatory burden  57% of SMEs surveyed by Chartered Accountants Ireland last month cited regulatory compliance as the area they most need help from the government in tackling (rising to 75% amongst small practices). In its Pre-Budget submission, CCAB-I identifies key areas where the intersection of tax law and administration are loading uncertainty and burden onto businesses, and calls for the following measures to be considered in Budget 2026:  Key proposed simplification measures   Simplify tax filing by introducing a single pay-and-file date for capital gains tax aligned with the annual income tax return.   Simplify the reporting of tax-free small benefits and expenses (the Enhanced Reporting Requirements rules) by replacing real-time reporting with monthly or quarterly returns. CCAB-I also recommends that penalties of €4,000 that are potentially chargeable where a reportable item is missed are made proportionate with the fact that the payments are non-taxable.   Introduce legislation enabling businesses to provide their staff with reasonable levels of hospitality while working without having to apply a benefit-in-kind tax charge. This would provide much needed certainty to business as to what they can provide in terms of lunches and teas and coffees and would critically support the local economy and hospitality sector. As we operate within a self-assessment tax system, employers should be empowered to determine what is a reasonable accommodation.  Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy at Chartered Accountants Ireland said  “A single pay-and-file date for capital gains tax aligned with the annual income tax return would alleviate the administrative burden of what is a low-yielding tax. 2024 Exchequer receipts from CGT accounted for approximately €1.7 billion, only 1.6% of the total tax receipts in that year.   “There is similar scope to ease administrative burdens for SMEs when it comes to the reporting of tax-free small benefits and travel expenses. The requirement to report these benefits “on or before” the time they are made or paid is excessive and should be replaced by monthly or even quarterly reporting. For example, in order to reduce the number of returns and the administrative headache of this requirement, many businesses now only reimburse travel expenses to workers on the same day as payroll. This means workers can be out of pocket for longer.  “Our research also shows that the regulatory compliance burden is particularly acute for SMEs with fewer than 50 staff; 35% have sought advice on how to reduce this burden, and they are the least likely to be able to shoulder it.”  Measures to support SMEs   The Programme for Government 2025 committed to rigorously implement the SME test to scrutinise every new piece of legislation and regulation for its impact on SMEs and examine the regularity of SME reporting and filing requirements.  CCAB-I calls for consideration to be given to enhancing the R&D tax credit regime for SMEs which has played an important role in promoting innovation and job creation in Ireland. The existing regime is limiting for the SME sector due to the restrictions on relief available for third party costs, and the use of third parties to carry out research and development on behalf of the SME is an indispensable option for Ireland’s SMEs. The automatic qualification for the R&D tax credit for SMEs in receipt of RD&I funding from Enterprise Ireland would also benefit the sector and remove complexity and uncertainty in this area.   Businesses are facing substantially higher employment costs, so CCAB-I is also asking that Government commits to no further increases in the rate of Employers’ PRSI for the next four years. Incremental increases across all classes of PRSI are planned up to 2028. Consideration should also be given to reducing the rate of Employers’ PRSI on minimum wage workers by 1.5% to help with the initial costs of pension auto enrolment which will likely come in next year.   Clohisey concluded:  “According to research we conducted last month among SMEs, 3 in 4 (77%) said that business costs have increased in the past six months, with staff costs the biggest challenge. There is anecdotal evidence that increases in minimum wage are causing employers to reduce hours to offset the increased costs, so committing to no further increases in the rate of Employers’ PRSI for a set period of time would go some way in trying to stem increasing labour costs.”  ENDS  Pre-Budget Submission 2026: Addressing the ongoing housing shortage

Central priorities will be promoting range of pathways into the profession and realising the all-island economic opportunity  Pamela McCreedy has been elected President of Chartered Accountants Ireland, marking a pivotal moment for the Institute and the profession. Her appointment, confirmed at the 137th Annual General Meeting in Belfast, also makes her the first public sector professional in 17 years to take on the role, and the first since the Institute’s historic amalgamation with CPA Ireland. With almost 40,000 members and 6,600 students across Ireland and internationally, Chartered Accountants Ireland is now the largest professional body on the island. The AGM in Belfast was the first held since the successful amalgamation took effect on 1 September 2024, and Ms McCreedy’s presidency begins at a time of transformation both for the organisation and for the profession it represents. Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Ms McCreedy brings extensive leadership experience across complex, public-facing organisations. She previously held senior roles in the Northern Ireland Audit Office, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and KPMG.  Commenting, Pamela McCreedy said: “I am immensely proud that the Chain of Office is being handed over in Belfast. It’s a privilege to lead the Institute at such a transformative time when the pace of change in our profession is matched only by the scale of opportunity ahead. We must meet that change with integrity, insight, and purpose. I look forward to working with members across the island and abroad to strengthen our impact and build on our proud legacy.” She paid tribute to outgoing President Barry Doyle, commending his tireless efforts in leading the Institute through amalgamation, engaging with members, and abroad, and championing SMEs, emerging talent, and responsible innovation, including AI. A strategic year ahead A central priority for Ms McCreedy’s term is the implementation of Strategy27, the Institute’s three-year strategic framework designed to strengthen the profession’s resilience, relevance, and influence. The strategy is built around five key pillars: Attracting and educating the next generation Upholding trust in the profession Providing relevant and future-focused member support Being a strong and effective voice Helping members to navigate change. “Strategy27 is a bold and timely blueprint,” Ms McCreedy said. “In a complex world of rising costs, geopolitical pressures, and technological acceleration, the trusted role of the Chartered Accountant is more important than ever. Our members are not just finance professionals they are ethical leaders, critical thinkers, and stewards of long-term value.” The Institute will also unveil a refreshed brand identity next month as part of its first student recruitment campaign under the amalgamated structure aimed at showcasing the diverse and flexible pathways into the profession. Highlighting Northern Ireland’s Strategic Advantage Speaking in Belfast, Ms McCreedy highlighted the strategic importance of Northern Ireland’s dual market access: “Northern Ireland offers unrivalled access to both UK and EU markets, a position no other European region holds. Combined with our skilled workforce and pro-business environment, this is a compelling proposition for investment, and Chartered Accountants have a central role to play in realising that potential. She affirmed the Institute’s commitment to supporting members across all sectors, public, private, and practice, and to harnessing the influence of the all-island economy. A Moment of Transition and Tribute Ms McCreedy also acknowledged the upcoming departure of Chartered Accountants Ireland Chief Executive Barry Dempsey, who has led the Institute for the past eight years: “Barry has been a driving force in shaping a stronger, more visible, and more connected Institute. His leadership has left a lasting legacy and we thank him sincerely for his vision, commitment, and service to members and students.” At today’s AGM, Joan Curry, Finance Officer at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, was elected Deputy President, and Niall Walsh, Partner at Deloitte Ireland, was elected Vice President.

Our brains shortcut for safety, not fairness, but this doesn’t mean bias should determine our decision-making. Andrea Demody explains how leaders can promote fairness and inclusion at all levels Most of us like to think we're fair-minded. Most leaders I work with genuinely believe they hire and promote based on merit. Their favourite articulation is often: "I always hire the best person for the job." But here's the thing: our brains weren't built for fairness. They were built for speed and safety. What does this mean for building a fair organisation? Imagine you're standing at a busy road crossing, the cars are whizzing by, and you're waiting for the lights to change so you can cross safely. Someone beside you starts to step out before the light changes. You instinctively reach out and stop them, without thinking this through consciously. This is your brain doing what it's designed to do—i.e. responding quickly to potential risk. It's scanning for cues, drawing on past experiences and acting fast to keep you safe. That same shortcutting also happens in the workplace. When reviewing CVs, deciding who to promote or assessing someone's performance, our brains are still looking for the familiar,  comfortable and safe option. And this is where bias can creep in. Bias is human We all have biases, conscious and unconscious. This isn’t a flaw in our character; it's just how our brains work. Understanding this is just step one, however. Step two involves designing ways to make fairer decisions despite this bias. Here are just a few examples of how bias can show up at work: Affinity bias: We tend to favour people who remind us of ourselves, such as those from the same school, background or previous employer. Halo and horns effect: A first impression can colour everything that comes after, meaning no automatic second or third chances. Confirmation bias: We notice what supports our beliefs and filter out what doesn't, making it difficult to consider contradictory perspectives. Recency bias: We give too much weight to what happened most recently, making it almost impossible to accurately judge a year's worth of performance. Groupthink: We self-censor to keep the peace, staying silent when we disagree with the majority opinion, especially if this is supported by the boss. Blind spot bias: We spot bias in others, but not in ourselves. These biases don't just affect hiring, promotion and other people processes, they can also impact strategy, innovation and team dynamics. Moving past our biases To move beyond the biases we carry, we need to establish a structure around our decisions. This might involve using rubrics for hiring or incorporating calibration into performance reviews. It could mean inviting challenge at team meetings or encouraging others to ask what evidence we are using to make decisions. The point is: you don't have to rely on willpower to be fair. You can design for it. Leaders can start small by getting curious about the voices they listen to, the perspectives they seek out and the assumptions they hold.  You may not be able to eliminate bias entirely, but you can interrupt it—and this is where progress begins. Beyond being the right thing to do, this makes smart business sense. An understanding that everyone will be included, regardless of how they might differ from the boss, is the secret sauce that makes diverse teams work together. One decision. One meeting. One moment where you put structure around the shortcut is how you state. Because designing for fairness isn't just good practice—it's good business. Andrea Dermody is Founder of Dermody Inclusion and Diversity

Costs have increased for almost 80% of small Irish businesses in the past six months, with staff costs the biggest financial challenge faced by SMEs, according to the inaugural SME Business Sentiment Survey from Chartered Accountants Ireland and GRID Finance. The survey, which will be repeated every six months, will measure and track the experiences, confidence and sentiment of a range of SMEs, including small accounting practices, doing business in Ireland today.   Staff costs the biggest financial challenge  3 in 4 (77%) respondents say that business costs have increased in the past six months, with staff costs the biggest financial challenge facing 2 in 5 (37%). Small practices were particularly challenged by staff costs (cost of salaries and other benefits and compensations), with half citing it as their single biggest financial issue.  Operational costs (24%) and regulatory compliance costs (14%) were the other biggest financial challenges facing SMEs, ahead of working capital management and access to funding. 57% identified regulatory compliance as the area in which they most need government support (rising to 75% amongst small practice respondents).  Eoin Christian, CEO, GRID Finance said    "These findings align with our own research conducted earlier this year – rising costs, particularly staff-related expenses are creating significant pressure on Irish SMEs. While these challenges are real, they also represent an opportunity for SMEs to take stock, streamline operations and invest in smart, sustainable growth strategies. At GRID Finance, we continue to advise our clients to be proactive by forecasting future cash flow needs, exploring flexible funding options and staying ahead of regulatory requirements like auto-enrolment.      “We feel that it's vital that both Government and financial providers evolve in tandem with the changing landscape. With the right supports and partners, Irish SMEs can not only weather this period of cost pressure, but emerge from it stronger, more resilient and better prepared for the future” Auto-enrolment, due to come into effect in January 2026 met with a muted response. Only 2 in 5 (40%) of respondents feel that they have been adequately informed of the steps needed to implement it in time for its planned launch.  Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy, Chartered Accountants Ireland said  “The Government’s announcement that it will defer the launch of auto enrolment to January 2026 is welcome, particularly in view of the feeling of unpreparedness many businesses expressed in this survey.  Many remain very unclear as to what is expected of them in advance of the new system launching. Over the next six months, it is imperative that Government embarks on a concerted communications and awareness campaign to bridge this information deficit and equip businesses with the support and guidance they need to make auto enrolment the success it needs to be.”  Attitudes to & use of Government supports The survey revealed a significant gap between demand for, and uptake of government supports called for by SMEs: Tax relief or incentives – 40% called for these, but only 16% of total survey respondents report availing of them  Access to grants or loans - 31% called for these, but only 30% of total survey respondents report availing of them  Meeting energy costs – 28% called for these, but only 14% of total survey respondents report availing of them.  Attitudes to the effectiveness of the supports are mixed, which may go some way to accounting for the gap between demand and uptake:  5% feel supports for reducing regulatory and compliance burdens are effective.  22% rate access to grants or loans as effective. 23% believe supports for training and upskilling are effective.  Commenting Cróna Clohisey said “There is an evident mismatch between the need for supports and the uptake of those on offer. In the case of tax reliefs and access to grants or loans for example, this may be attributable to a perceived lack of accessibility, particularly for time and resource-constrained SMEs who simply find the application process too cumbersome. While the breath of current Government supports in these areas is positive, further steps need to be taken to ensure that business reliefs such as these are not overly difficult to claim if their effectiveness is to be meaningfully felt by small businesses.”    Mixed profitability and projections for coming year  Almost 3 in 10 (28%) report their business profitability has increased in the past six months, while a similar number (26%) report it has decreased. Small practice respondents reported greater stability, with 56% saying profitability remained the same, and only 15% saying it has decreased. For small business respondents, 30% reported decreased profitability in the past six months.     Despite the various economic headwinds facing the economy, there was a degree of optimism amongst respondents about their prospects for the coming year. 27% of respondents forecasted their business to be either somewhat or significantly better off by this time next year.  Overall, sentiment was more negative than positive however, with 36% saying they will be worse off.  Less optimism in the face of global headwinds   This negative sentiment was also evident when it comes to the broader economic environment, with a majority (74%) feeling less optimistic about the wider economy’s prospects compared to six months ago. Compounding this are ongoing tensions and uncertainty in global trade which have already impacted Irish business sentiment. 62% of respondents report that their business operations have been impacted by global trade tensions and tariffs and only 14% say they are prepared for a further escalation of such tensions.  The SME Business Sentiment Survey from Chartered Accountants Ireland and GRID Finance can be read in full here.   ENDS About the SME Business Sentiment Survey  The SME Business Sentiment Survey is conducted by Chartered Accountants Ireland and GRID Finance, the Institute’s Official Independent Lender Partner. The inaugural survey was conducted by Coyne Research between 4 and 21 April 2025 and will be repeated every six months. Approximately 300 members were surveyed from organisations employing fewer than 250 people.  

A co-founder with a passion for using her skills and experience for a positive impact, Sophie Dillon took the leap from Kells to Toronto via Dublin. We caught up with Sophie recently to hear her story. 1. Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Kells, Co Meath and studied at University College Dublin. Today, I live in Toronto, Canada. I had always wanted to build an international career, and Toronto offered the kind of dynamic, fast-moving business environment I was looking for. 2. What led you to chartered accountancy? Studying Commerce in UCD, I found I really enjoyed the structure and logic of accounting. I’ve always liked solving problems and the qualification offered a solid foundation with broad career options—whether in practice, industry, or something more entrepreneurial down the line. As a child and teenager, I had a real passion for  showjumping and I think if I hadn't come down this road I would have loved a career in the equestrian industry! 3. Can you tell us a little about how you got to where you are today – both the geographical relocation and career path? I trained with KPMG’s Restructuring department in Dublin, where I worked with businesses navigating financial challenges. From there, I joined KKR, working on their European leveraged credit team, focusing on healthcare investments. I later moved to Canada and held several finance leadership roles, including at an early-stage healthcare startup. Today I’m the co-founder of Orbit Accountants, a firm set up in 2023 to support SMEs across Canada and the US with bookkeeping, payroll, tax and fractional CFO services. I co-founded the company with Malay Matalia who I met in Toronto. We shared a belief that SMEs and growing businesses deserve better access to high quality financial support. Toronto is a global city, and moving here really broadened my perspective, opening up a network I might not otherwise have encountered. 4. What do you value most about your membership of the profession and how do you think those benefits can be used to support the economy and society? The training really sharpens your ability to think critically, assess risk, and communicate clearly—skills that are valuable far beyond finance. As the economy evolves, there’s a real need for professionals who can leverage financial data for strategic insights and support good decision-making. 5. As a member living away from Ireland, can you talk to us about how your membership has been of value to you living overseas? The designation carries weight internationally, and that’s been important for building trust in a new market. It also creates an instant sense of community—particularly with the strong network of Irish professionals here in Toronto. That network has been valuable both professionally and personally. 6. What were the most significant/noticeable differences you encountered doing business and networking away from home and back in Ireland? Networking in Ireland tends to be more informal and relationship-led from the start. In Canada, there’s a bit more structure around it—people are generous with their time, but there’s usually a clear agenda. Both styles have their strengths, and I’ve found that being able to adapt between the two has been a real asset. The common thread in both places is that strong relationships, built over time, always matter. Sophie Dillon is Co-Founder of Orbit Accountants in Toronto.  

Last week, the Institute was proud to win Best Learning and Development Programme at the Irish HR Champion Awards for its innovative virtual reality (VR) experience. This groundbreaking combination of the latest technologies and traditional learning provides learners of audit with a unique perspective that can set them apart. The programme - developed with the Metaverse team at Sia and funded by Skillnet Ireland - addresses the very real challenge of equipping junior and trainee auditors with Professional Scepticism (PS) skills. The VR simulation puts learners into the role and persona of a junior auditor conducting an external audit, allowing them to practice PS in realistic scenarios that mirror the complexities of real-world audit environments.  Presenting the Award, Maurice Whelan, Founder and CEO of Unleash Potential Ireland, said:  “Tonight’s Learning and Development Award celebrates a programme that didn’t just raise the bar — it completely reimagined it. This organisation tackled one of the most complex challenges in professional education head-on, fusing cutting-edge Virtual Reality technology with real-world expertise to deliver a truly immersive, transformative learning experience. By embracing bold innovation and setting a global first in their field, they have not only elevated their own members’ development but captured the attention of top universities and industry leaders alike. They’ve shown that when technology meets vision and collaboration, the results can be nothing short of groundbreaking”.  

AAB named winner in Employer of the Year category and Tax Team of the Year category at the Irish Accountancy Awards last night      Business leader Feargal McCormack has been recognised for his contribution to the accountancy profession. He was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Accountancy award at the 2025 Irish Accountancy Awards in Dublin marking his achievements over a career that has spanned more than 30 years. AAB, in which McCormack is a Senior Partner was awarded Employer of the Year and Tax Team of the Year at the event.  This Outstanding Contribution to Accountancy category recognises a senior individual who has made a significant contribution to the profession. Previous recipients of this award include Elaine Coughlan, FCA, Dr Laurence Crowley, CBE, FCA, Dr Margaret Downes FCA, Terence O’Rourke FCA and Professor Patricia Barker.   Feargal McCormack founded FPM Chartered Accountants in Newry in 1991 which he grew over many years to become an award-winning practice with a presence across the island of Ireland. The company merged with AAB in 2022 and Feargal remains there as Senior Partner and Head of Family Business. Feargal McCormack said that he was very humbled and honoured to receive the award, and addressing the gathering, added “Looking to the future, ethics must be embedded at the heart of the business landscape. An Irish Chartered Accountancy qualification is a global business and leadership passport for life. Go forward with confidence, have fun, embrace and enjoy the journey. Onwards and Upwards.” Chief Executive of Chartered Accountants Ireland, Barry Dempsey said  “Feargal is an exemplar of this profession and a role model for anyone currently in it or aspiring to join it. In founding FPM Chartered Accountants, he created a highly successful cross-border firm with the best interests of small to medium and family-run businesses at heart – businesses which are the lifeblood of our economies. He steered the firm through to its recent merger with AAB and remains a key Partner in it. As a former President of this Institute, he actively promoted the profession and truly connected with members. “His contribution to the profession has previously been recognised in his and his firm’s many awards and recognitions, but Feargal’s interests extend far beyond his work. He sits on numerous committees and boards contributing to academia, sport, community ventures and is a Patron of Special Olympics Ireland. I warmly congratulate Feargal and his family on this well-deserved recognition from his peers and entire Chartered community”. The Irish Accountancy Awards were launched in 2016 to celebrate excellence in the accountancy profession and now cover a total of 28 categories.  

A new report from Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW) reveals significant enthusiasm about the use of AI in the profession, with 85% of respondents expressing willingness to use AI tools - and 91% of those aged 18–24 already using the technology. Members of Chartered Accountants Ireland were surveyed alongside respondents from 13 other Chartered bodies around the world, with the findings showing that AI is increasingly integrated into business processes and that the profession is actively embracing change. Chartered Accountants Ireland is the largest professional body on the island of Ireland, representing almost 40,000 members and educating 6,600 students. Key findings: AI is reshaping the profession - 85% of respondents are willing to use AI tools. This rises to 91% among 18–24-year-olds and is accompanied by strong understanding (59%) of the potential uses of AI in accountancy.   AI is already in use - 83% of 18–24-year-olds use AI tools weekly - mainly for general productivity, data entry, reconciliation of accounts, and financial reporting. While 80% of 18–24-year-olds feel confident using AI in their roles, only 47% of those aged 55+ share that confidence. The most used tools are Gen AI chatbots, Microsoft Copilot and business intelligence tools. 45% say AI is already helping them to work more effectively and efficiently. 31% say they are already using traditional AI in their job. 29% are already using generative AI (GenAI) in their job.   Barriers to adoption - 52% of those surveyed state that the biggest barrier to AI adoption is insufficient skills and training. 30% also cite data security concerns as a reason they do not use AI more frequently.   Upskilling is essential - despite a high willingness to use AI, there is a skills gap and feeling of unpreparedness for the changes AI will bring. 30% have participated in AI-related training through their organisation, but 92% are likely to participate if offered the opportunity. 65% expect to receive AI-related training from their professional body, while 32% expect it from employers. Commenting Barry Dempsey, Chief Executive of Chartered Accountants Ireland, said “It is really encouraging to see strong early adoption and enthusiasm in the profession. It is clear from the research, however, that current usage is largely focused on general-purpose productivity tools, rather than technical work, with much of the momentum driven by individual initiative and self-directed learning. “Only 30% have participated in AI-related training through their organisation, and among those that have not engaged in training, 61% say it is because it is not offered. There is a high employee willingness to engage, with 92% saying they are likely to participate if offered the opportunity, so bridging this gap will be crucial to unlocking the further potential of AI for the profession. Smaller practices and businesses may not have the resources to deliver tailored AI training, so it’s essential that professional bodies like ours step in to bridge that gap. There is also an opportunity for the government to play a role in supporting widespread digital upskilling, particularly for SMEs, to ensure no part of the profession is left behind as AI reshapes the business landscape.” AI is an opportunity, not a threat There is consensus in the findings that AI will augment, rather than replace, the Chartered Accountant’s role, with human intelligence remaining at the heart of the profession. Chartered Accountants will continue to rely on core skills, and the training priorities of respondents reflects this: Critical thinking (77% rate this as a priority) Data privacy and security (71% rate this as a priority) AI ethics (66% rate this as a priority) Barry Dempsey continued: “Priorities such as critical thinking, an emphasis on data privacy and security and AI ethics go to the very heart of chartered accountants as trusted business leaders. Critical thinking will continue to be crucial in scrutinising and applying AI insights to provide effective advice to business/clients. Similarly, with increased AI use, it's even more important to ensure structured, effective training to use technology ethically and protect data responsibly. “56% of respondents agree that incorporating AI makes accountancy more attractive as a career choice and we remain committed to equipping the next generation of Chartered Accountants with the skills and mindset to lead in a world shaped by innovation, from their first steps as students to their roles as future business leaders.” Read the report in full CAW_AI-in-Accountancy-web.pdf  Read media coverage Chartered accountants confident about adoption of AI in their work, survey finds – The Irish Times 

This is the first MRA between CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Ireland, who are both full members of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and collectively represent more than 215,000 members in more than 100 countries worldwide. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Melbourne, CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland said that this agreement is a significant milestone in the relationship between the two bodies. “Signing this agreement enables our respective organisations to work together to provide high quality education programs and build the technical capabilities of accounting, business and finance professionals,” Mr. Freeland said.  “This agreement stands as a mark of our mutual commitment to share information and ideas. It broadens the global vision of our respective members and promotes the ongoing advancement of the profession in both Ireland and Australia.  “Importantly, it provides members from both professional bodies a pathway to take up each other’s designation and enhance their career opportunities.” Chartered Accountants Ireland President, Barry Doyle, FCA, CPA said “As a small island, Ireland has always been outward facing, and our members use their qualification globally. This Agreement will benefit the many Irish professionals building their careers in Australia and will allow both bodies to collaborate even more closely in supporting all our members. “The historic amalgamation of Chartered Accountants Ireland and CPA Ireland in 2024 created the largest professional body on the island, with this expanded Institute now the only Ireland-based accountancy body. CPA Ireland enjoyed an enduring relationship with CPA Australia over several decades, and there is now an exciting opportunity to build upon this for the benefit of our members and our respective economies.” The MRA was signed by Chris Freeland AM, CEO, CPA Australia and Barry Doyle, President, Chartered Accountants Ireland.  

John O'Loughlin examines the global trade crisis sparked by Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs and their sweeping impact on EU exports and businesses US President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” announcement marked a significant and historic escalation of the US approach to international trade and tariffs. Exports from the European Union (EU) to the US are now in scope of Trump’s tariffs and some businesses will be significantly impacted by this latest round of measures. Immediate changes and impact  On Wednesday 2 April, the Trump Administration announced wide-ranging “reciprocal” tariff measures. President Trump invoked his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) to address the “national emergency” posed by the large and persistent trade deficit. These measures, imposed on all global trading nations, apply a blanket additional tariff rate on all products imported into the US. As expected, the measures were applied on a country-by-country basis with the following key markets impacted by the following additional tariffs: European Union: 20% United Kingdom: 10% China: 34% Japan: 24% Switzerland: 31% Brazil: 10% Australia: 10% India: 26% South Korea: 25% In addition to the above, a further 60 or so countries will have reciprocal tariffs applied at half the rate they charge the US, according to the Trump administration. These measures are due to be implemented on 9 April. Further to these specific tariffs, all other countries not listed will be subject to a baseline rate of 10 percent, which will be imposed from 5 April and will be in addition to the standard rate of duty (most-favoured nation rate).  The Executive Order imposing the “reciprocal” tariff rates have specifically excluded certain product categories which will not be subject to these new measures. These products include: Steel and aluminium articles already subject to additional tariff measures;  Auto and auto parts already subject to tariff measures implemented on 3 April; Copper; Pharmaceuticals; Semiconductors; Lumber articles; and Energy and certain other minerals that are not available in the United States.  Regarding imports from Mexico and Canada, those that meet the US-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) rules will not be subject to additional tariffs. However, goods that do not meet the rules under the USMCA will continue to be subject to the 25 percent tariffs imposed on 4 March. Trump’s tariffs have created a trade crisis on a global scale affecting companies across all sectors. These tariffs will remain in effect until he determines that the threat posed by the trade deficit— and underlying nonreciprocal treatment—is satisfied, resolved or mitigated. Other tariff measures As announced on Wednesday 26 March, 25 percent tariffs on imports of foreign-made cars came into effect on 3 April. The tariffs will impact cars from all countries with a value-based exception for the US value of cars covered by the USMCA. Additionally, on Monday 25 March, Trump also announced the possibility of a 25 percent additional tariff on countries purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela, with an implementation date of 2 April. As of yet, no tariffs under this measure have been imposed. Further to previous Executive Orders regarding tariffs on imports of Chinese goods, President Trump has signed an Executive Order removing the de minimis treatment for goods of Chinese and Hong Kong origin, effective from 2 May. This order imposes duties on goods valued at or under $800 which would otherwise have qualified for an import duty exemption. USTR Foreign Trade Barriers Report On 31 March, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) published its 2025 National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers – a wide-ranging report highlighting foreign barriers to US exports, US foreign direct investment and US electronic commerce. Ireland is specifically noted within the report, but references are limited to commentary regarding alcohol labelling and reimbursements related to pharmaceutical products. European retaliatory measures On 12 March, the European Commission announced countermeasures in response to the US tariffs on steel and aluminium products, which it deems "unjustified".  Following a period of consultation, the EU has postponed the implementation of these measures until 15 April. These tariffs range from 10 percent to 75 percent with the majority of products falling within the 25 percent category. Additionally, the EU is set to announce further countermeasures on a wider range of goods. EU reaction On Tuesday 1 April, comments by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen indicated that the EU is prepared to retaliate against the US, if necessary, in response to Trump's tariff hikes. “Europe has not started this confrontation, we do not necessarily want to retaliate but, if it is necessary, we have a strong plan to retaliate and we will use it,” von der Leyen said. She further emphasised the significance of the US-EU trading relationship, noting that their trade volume is $1.5 trillion and that one million American jobs rely on this trade. Von der Leyen reiterated that Europe is open to negotiations, stating, "We will approach these negotiations from a position of strength. Europe holds many cards, from trade to technology to the size of our market. However, this strength is also built on our readiness to take firm countermeasures if necessary. All instruments are on the table.” Actions for businesses In anticipation of these tariffs, companies have placed significant focus on analysing their own data and scenario planning for the impact of tariffs. With Trump’s announcement, businesses should shift their focus to tariff mitigation strategies and options, including customs origin, valuation and tariff classification. Duty relief programs should also be considered. It is expected that the EU will push ahead with its retaliatory measures and other countries may look to introduce similar measures. Trump’s executive orders also contain modification authority allowing him to increase the tariff if trading partners retaliate, or reduce the tariffs if trading partners take significant steps to remedy non-reciprocal trade arrangements and align with the US on economic and national security matters. John O'Loughlin, Partner, Global Trade and Customs, PwC Ireland

Commenting on the US administration’s new tariffs, Cróna Clohisey, Director of Members and Advocacy, Chartered Accountants Ireland said: “The announcement of 20% tariffs on imports from the EU by US President Donald Trump last night is a regressive step in transatlantic trade relations and upends the principle of open and fair trade. We urge the Irish government to work with the EU Commission to find a way to engage the US in constructive dialogue which prioritises solutions over a cycle of retaliatory measures. A further escalation in trade tensions will risk jobs, businesses and economies not just on the island of Ireland, but across the world. Without a doubt, these tariffs will cast a shadow of uncertainty over the stability of Ireland’s future corporation tax receipts with the stated aim of the tariff war being to ‘onshore’ many of the US multinationals operating overseas. As an all-island body, it is equally regrettable to see a 10% tariff announced on imports to the US from Northern Ireland, adding an additional pressure to businesses who are still navigating the complex trading landscape post Brexit. For now, we need to focus on what we can control. Prioritising Ireland’s competitiveness on the global stage will require urgently addressing our persistent infrastructural deficits. Our infrastructure is 25% less developed, on average, than other high-income European countries. This is not sustainable, particularly in the face of such protectionist measures. Now is the time to utilise the resources already at our disposal to accelerate investment in housing, water, energy and transport to best position the economy for growth - not only in terms of continued inward investment but also supporting domestic enterprises that comprise 99.8% of businesses in Ireland.”