Members of Chartered Accountants Ireland based in New York and the surrounding region gathered at the Consulate General Ireland in New York on Monday evening for a panel discussion event on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on business and the accountancy profession. The event was hosted by Institute Chief Executive Rosemary Keogh, President Pamela McCreedy and Director of Members & Advocacy Cróna Clohisey together with head of the New York member chapter Conall McGonagle.   Building and strengthening relationships Deputy Consul General Katie Daughen opened the evening welcoming members, the Institute leadership team and guests, including visitors from the New York State Society of CPAs, members of American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the IDA. Recognising Chartered Accountants as trusted business leaders, she emphasised the vital role that members play in today’s uncertain economic times due to their understanding of current economic and business conditions. Katie spoke about the importance of two-way US-Ireland business. She highlighted the need for proper implementation of the EU-US Trade Agreement and how the influence and vigilance of Chartered members can contribute to this. She emphasised the enduring ties between the US and Ireland, which both countries seek to protect and grow, citing the 31 million Americans who claim Irish heritage, the 781 Irish companies employing 202,000 people in the US, and 972 US firms employing 245,000 people in Ireland. Panel discussion: Trusted Business Leadership in an era of artificial intelligence   The panel speakers (Gavan Corr – CEO of Pazithi Group; Stathis Gould – Director of IFAC and Cróna Clohisey, with moderator John McCourt, owner of RSM) shared updates, experiences and insights, encouraging members and guests not to fear AI but to embrace it. Panellist Gavan Corr observed that AI is only as good as the data that goes into it. Those with technical expertise – including Chartered Accountants – will still be essential to maximising its potential and for reviewing its outputs. Auditors, he said, will be more valuable as they will combine the understanding of business with a mastery of AI. The discussion reinforced that while technology is evolving rapidly, human expertise and deep understanding of business remain critical for success. Building connections, building trust In her comments, Chief Executive Rosemary Keogh acknowledged the work and commitment of the New York chapter and chapter head Conall McGonagle FCA CPA. She noted that this new member network is building connections across and between the US and the island of Ireland, and thanked them for their contributions to the US and Irish economies and for promoting the brand and profession. Speaking on the importance of trust and its position as the "north star" of the Institute's Strategy27, Rosemary noted that in the context of uncertain times and fast-moving technologies, trust is the most highly-valued currency. She cited that Chartered Accountants continue to rank among the world's most trusted professions according to Edelman DXI's Trust Survey, and maintaining and strengthening this position is a central focus of Strategy27. President Pamela McCreedy echoed these sentiments and the theme of the event, noting that three in four organisations already rely on Chartered Accountants to ensure data integrity. She commented that "AI is not just a technical revolution; it’s a human one. It challenges us to think differently about judgment, ethics, and purpose. The future of trusted business leadership will depend on how effectively we balance innovation with integrity – harnessing technology, while holding fast to the values that define our profession” Staying connected In her comments during the event, Rosemary Keogh encouraged members to connect with peers locally through their district society or global chapter network supported by Executive Head of Global Engagement Zara Duffy and District and Global Member Manager Gilllian Duffy. She highlighted the profession's global significance and reach and outlined the growth plans of Strategy27 supported by the Institute teams. You can view photos from the event here. Watch a short video here.

    “There is still time for humanity to avoid the worst of the impacts of climate change. But we need to act now, and we need to act decisively, just like we did a decade ago. “This has the potential to be one of the most consequential climate COPs of the last decade.” Ruth Do Coutto, Deputy Director of the Climate Change Division, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)   The first official week of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) took place this week in Belém, Brazil, with Brazilain President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, describing climate change as being “no longer a threat of the future; it is a tragedy of the present”. In what was billed as marking the start of “a decisive decade in the battle against climate change”, the conference began against a backdrop of rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, ongoing destruction of nature and biodiversity, and escalating geopolitical trade disputes and tensions. The US, the second-largest carbon emitter globally, has not sent a delegation to the summit. Senior US politicians, including Gavin Newsom, headed an alternate US delegation and reportedly emphasised that “subnational jurisdictions in the US are still committed to tackling the climate crisis.” A key focus of the summit is ensuring information integrity, with countries sealing a landmark declaration urging governments, the private sector, civil society, academia and funders to take concrete action to counter the growing impact of disinformation, misinformation, denialism and attacks on environmental journalists, defenders, scientists and researchers that undermine climate action and threaten societal stability. The Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change calls on governments to ensure funds for research into climate information integrity, especially in developing countries. It marks the first time that information integrity has been prioritised at the UN Climate Conference. "We live in an era in which obscurantists reject scientific evidence and attack institutions.” Lula da Silva said. “It is time to deliver yet another defeat to denialism.” COP30 themes With the two-day Leaders’ Summit ending on Friday 6 November, delegates began work in earnest to find ways to prevent or mitigate the worst effects of global warming. Each day of COP 30 has a specific theme focused on different areas of climate action and aligned with COP30’s six main Action Agenda pillars: Energy, Industry and Transport; Forests, Oceans and Biodiversity; Agriculture and Food Systems; Cities, Infrastructure and Water; Human and Social Development; and Cross-cutting issues. COP26’s Glasgow Pact in 2021 committed signatory countries to double adaption finance. The ‘Baku to Belém Roadmap’ called for US $1.3 trillion in annual climate finance by 2035. Despite this, the UNEP’s Adaptation Gap Report 2025 has identified a significant shortfall in finance currently available to developing countries. These nations are expected to need more than $310 billion each year to adapt to effects like flooding and wildfires. It is no surprise, then, that finance – particularly innovative financing – was woven through all thematic areas this week, with some major announcements: The Tropical Forest Forever Facility aims to remove the financial logic for deforestation, with a proposal that seeks to compensate countries for preserving tropical forests, with 20 percent of funds reserved for Indigenous peoples. Described as “the biggest and boldest plan yet to staunch the loss of tropical forests that are a pillar of climate stability”, the mechanism would effectively see countries being paid to maintain forests through blended finance. It could become one of the world’s largest multilateral funds. However, its success depends on buy-in from governments and financial institutions to pivot from destruction to stewardship of tropical forests. A $2.5 billion plan aims to protect the Congo Basin, the world’s second-largest rainforest, received backing by European nations. The plan aims to end deforestation by 2030 through funding, technology, and capacity building.   The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance rolled out nine new financial instruments designed to steer more capital toward climate solutions in developing economies.   The Climate Investment Funds (CIF) received $100 million in initial funding from Germany and Spain for its Accelerating Resilience Investments and innovations for Sustainable Economies (ARISE) investment program, designed to strengthen the adaptive capacity of developing countries’ economies.   The Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), initiated at COP27 in Egypt, has officially become operational. It finances initiatives to help vulnerable communities recover from climate-related losses and damage. While praised as being a step towards achieving climate justice, the fund’s resources fall far short of what is needed, with only $788 million of the required $200–400 billion annually by 2030 being pledged so far.   A new initiative launched that aims to transform National Adaptation Plans into investable, finance-ready projects that attract large-scale private and public funding. Fostering Investible National Planning and Implementation (FINI) for Adaptation & Resilience targets $1 trillion in adaptation project pipelines, with 20 percent from private investors and $500 million from multilateral and philanthropic partners to support risk assessment and local capacity building. Bringing together countries, development banks, insurers, investors, philanthropies, civil society and global organizations, it aims to strengthen collaboration between the public and the private financial sectors.   The Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) have also published an COP30 Action Agendawhich plans to accelerate carbon accounting solutions. It demonstrates how to unlock a critical barrier to enabling rapid decarbonization: the lack of harmonized, interoperable carbon accounting standards across corporate, product, and project levels.  Podcast COP30: Will this be the year for real change? Irish Times Climate and Science correspondent Caroline O’Doherty joins the podcast from Belém to discuss whether this year’s climate negotiations will move beyond plans and into concrete action. (In the News) 22 mins   Short video Costing the Earth Stephen Fry and Al Murray explain the thoughts behind the need to embed sustainability into organizations' DNA (Accounting for Sustainability) 3.33 mins  Articles “The COPs are slow, but they do matter” – Minister for Climate Darragh O’Brien tries to demystify the UN’s complicated annual climate conference and what they’ve achieved over the years (The Journal) Working together on climate efforts essential, COP to hear (RTÉ) Cop30 is not just another climate conference — it is a crossroads (Irish Examiner) Sustainability Centre You can check Chartered Accountants Ireland COP30 coverage and resources on its Sustainability Centre.

    In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin, read about COP30, the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, Bank of Ireland’s green bond sale, the continued rise in global demand for green skills, calls for faster action as Ireland overshoots its first carbon budget targets and proposals for the future of environmental governance in Northern Ireland. Also covered is the adoption by the European Parliament of its negotiating position on sustainability reporting and due diligence duties for businesses and on the EU Climate Law, as well as calls for an ambitious gender equality strategy, and the OECD’s reports on effective carbon rates and global corporate sustainability. We also bring you the latest articles, jobs and upcoming events. IRELAND COP30  – a focus on implementation COP30 – the 2025 global climate summit – is underway this week. Running until 21 November, with world leaders, policy-makers, diplomats and activists converging on Belém, Brazil, the summit will discuss the world’s action on tackling climate change. The most significant event on the global climate calendar, the summit’s focus this year is on implementation. The summit’s theme of “readiness and resilience” will emphasise adaptation, infrastructure, local governments, circular economy, and water/waste systems. Nature-based solutions and forests will also feature prominently, particularly as Belém is located at the mouth of the Amazon rainforest,. The topic of mobilising finance will be key part of the summit also Minister Darragh O’Brien TD will lead Ireland’s National Climate Delegation for the political negotiations. The Delegation is made up of officials from across Government and a number of agencies.  At next year’s COP31, Ireland will lead the EU's negotiations as it will hold the EU presidency.  You can check Chartered Accountants Ireland COP30 coverage and resources on its Sustainability Centre. NDP Sectoral Capital Plan for 2026-2030 publishes The Sectoral Capital Plan for 2026-2030 for the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has been published, aligned with the goals, objectives and actions of the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment's new Statement of Strategy, Le Chéile 28 (published in September). The plan will support investment of over €5.6 billion by the department in key government priorities, such as in the energy, climate and circular economy sectors over the next five years. Key priorities include meeting the commitments in the Programme for Government to allocate a share of annual carbon tax proceeds for investment in energy efficiency programmes, continuing sustained action to tackle the climate crisis and to decarbonise the economy, delivering the energy infrastructure required to sustain a growing economy, improving our competitiveness and promoting a circular economy. Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has published information on the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), an environmental management tool from the European Union granted to organisations that have made efforts in enhancing their environmental performance.  Recognised internationally as a certification in the world of sustainability, transparent public reporting and legal compliance, EMAS certification requires an organisation to examine the impact it has on the environment, to plan on how to improve in the future and to then check the progress and publish a statement on its green performance after externally verifying it by an accredited auditor. Strong investor demand as Bank of Ireland raises €750 million from green bond sale Bank of Ireland has raised €750 million from its second green bond issuance of the year to finance more climate action projects in renewable energy and green buildings. Orders exceeded €2.6 billion with participation from over 140 investors globally. This year, Bank of Ireland completed its largest green energy investment to date, financed its first solar power project, and expanded its Enviroflex sustainability-linked loans – originally available to the dairy sector – to include tillage farmers.  Bank of Ireland’s sustainability-related lending grew to €16.5 billion at the end of September 2025, achieving and exceeding its end-2025 target of €15 billion ahead of schedule. The Bank is targeting €30 billion in sustainability-related lending to households and businesses by 2030. Report finds that global demand for green skills exceeds supply A Labour Market Pulse Report from Microsoft, LinkedIn and Ireland's Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has found that demand for green skills in Ireland has grown at twice the global rate between 2021–2024, and that, globally, demand currently exceeds supply. The report also suggests that green jobs will outnumber qualified workers two to one by 2050.  In addition to workers with technical skills (e.g. engineers with expertise in battery storage, grid integration and offshore wind), managers with knowledge of carbon accounting, environmental compliance, and sustainable supply chains are also highly sought after across sectors. EU awards €3.5 million to two projects to accelerate Ireland’s clean energy transition The European Commission has granted almost €3.5 million to two Irish projects, HERO and BUSUnited, under the 2024 EU LIFE Programme to accelerate Ireland’s clean energy transition. The projects will focus on expanding home energy renovation services and tackling skills shortages in the construction sector. The LIFE Programme is the EU’s funding instrument for the environment, climate action and clean energy. For the 2021–2027 period it has a budget of approximately €5.432 billion. Most projects receive between €1 million and €5 million in co-financing, with higher amounts available for larger integrated projects. Climate Change Advisory Council calls for faster action The Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) has reported that Ireland has failed to achieve the targeted emission reductions during the first Carbon Budget period (2021-2025), with an overshoot of approximately 10 Mt CO2eq. This overshoot, the CCAC warns, will need to be paid back in the next Carbon Budget period (2026-2030) making it increasingly difficult to achieve. Transport was singled out as a particularly emissions-intensive sector. The Council emphasised the critical role that Local Authorities play in driving climate action at community level, as well as the significant opportunity that Ireland has to invest in households, communities and businesses, rather than paying punitive compliance costs estimated to be up to €26bn for failing to meet EU targets. Ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union, the Council has urged the Government to fully integrate all climate and energy-related EU directives into Irish law within the legally binding time limit. NORTHERN IRELAND/UK Proposals set out for future of environmental governance in Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir is seeking agreement for the establishment of an independent Environmental Protection Agency in Northern Ireland following publication of an expert independent panel report. The body, which would be overseen by an independent board led by a non-executive chair, would have full operational independence and would allow for better and more accountable environmental protection and regulation. Commenting Minister Muir said, “The costs of inaction are simply too great, we should look no further than Lough Neagh or the illegal dump at Mobuoy which, as you will know, could cost hundreds of millions of pounds to resolve. Restoring trust and confidence in environmental protection is crucial for the economy and for our communities. Better and more accountable regulation will create a fair and level playing field for all.” EUROPE European Parliament adopts negotiating position on simplified sustainability reporting and due diligence duties for businesses The European Parliament has adopted its negotiating position on simplified sustainability reporting and due diligence duties for businesses. The MEPs voted that only businesses employing on average over 1,750 employees and with a net annual turnover of over €450 million should have to carry out reporting under the CSRD. Only businesses within this scope would also be required to provide sustainability reporting under taxonomy rules (i.e. a classification of sustainable investments). Reporting standards would be further simplified and reduced, requiring fewer qualitative details, and sector-specific reporting would become voluntary. Smaller companies would be protected from the reporting requirements arising from relationships with their larger business partners, which would not be allowed to request more information than what is set out in the voluntary standards. MEPs also voted for due diligence requirements to apply only to large corporations with more than 5,000 employees and a net annual turnover of over €1.5 billion. MEPs want these businesses “to adopt a risk-based approach to monitoring and identifying their negative impact on people and the planet.” These companies would no longer need to prepare a transition plan to make their business model compatible with the Paris Agreement and could face fines for not complying with due diligence requirements, the guidance on which will be provided by the Commission and Member States. Offending firms would be liable at the national rather than EU level and would have to fully compensate their victims for damages. Negotiations with EU governments, which have already adopted their position on the file, will start on 18 November, with the aim of finalising the legislation by the end of 2025. European Parliament calls for ambitious gender equality strategy The European Parliament has called on the European Commission to present an ambitious 2026–2030 gender equality strategy, with concrete legislative and non-legislative measures in key areas.  MEPs are calling, among other things, for gender-based violence to be an EU crime, for EU equality legislation to be implemented in full, for safe and legal abortion care to be a fundamental right, and for a consent-based definition of rape in EU legislation. MEPs adopts position on EU Climate Law The European Parliament has adopted its position on the Commission’s proposal for an amendment to the EU Climate Law, setting a new, intermediate and binding 2040 EU climate target of reducing net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 90 percent compared to 1990 levels.  The Parliament will now start negotiations with Member States on the final shape of the law. Agreement reached on single EU methodology for calculating transport emissions EU Parliament and Council negotiators have agreed on a single EU methodology for calculating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transport services. Under the preliminary agreement, the new rules will make it easier to compare the environmental performance of different transport modes across the EU, helping consumers and businesses make informed choices and reducing the risk of greenwashing. While the new rules will not oblige transport companies to calculate their GHG emissions, if they choose to do so (for instance for reporting, contractual or marketing purposes), or when required by other EU rules, they will be obliged to apply the common EU methodology. Accountancy Europe responds to EFRAG’S VSME market acceptance survey Accountancy Europe has responded to the VSME market acceptance survey, launched on 2 October by EFRAG, the group that advises the European Commission on financial and sustainability reporting. The survey aimed to assess the current level of awareness, use and acceptance of the VSME standard. In its response, Accountancy Europe identified free-to-use full reporting software at a national level as being helpful for SMEs, and recommended that more awareness raising/promotional activities at the national level directed at both preparers and users could help foster the market acceptance of the VSME. Public hearing on "Clean industrial deal and Energy Taxation Directive" The Subcommittee on Tax Matters (FISC) will hold a public hearing entitled “Tax aspects of the clean industrial deal and the revision of the energy taxation directive” on 20 November 2025. The aim of the hearing is to understand how the taxation measures taken to support the EU’s decarbonisation goals in the Clean Industry Deal can affect the taxation of energy and the current negotiations on the revised Energy Taxation Directive. In particular, the implementation of energy taxes that support electrification and avoid incentivising the use of fossil fuels will be under the spotlight. WORLD OECD reports on effective carbon rates and global corporate sustainability The OECD has published a report Effective Carbon Rates 2025: Recent Trends in Taxes on Energy Use and Carbon Pricing as part of its series on Carbon Pricing and Energy Taxation. The report presents 2023 data on how countries are using carbon taxes, emissions trading systems and fuel excise taxes, with selected updates through 2025. Covering 79 countries that together account for 82 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, the report places particular emphasis on emissions trading systems, and takes stock of recent policy developments, offering policymakers, stakeholders and analysts a reliable point of reference and a basis for policy reform enquiries. Separately the OECD has published its Global Corporate Sustainability Report 2025, providing insights on how companies are implementing the sustainability-related recommendations of the G20/OECD Principles of Corporate Governance. These recommendations cover disclosure, shareholder-company dialogue, board responsibilities, and stakeholder engagement. This edition features an in-depth analysis of the energy sector, assessing emission reduction targets, executive compensation, and capital expenditures and investments in green research and development. IFAC seeks volunteer members The Nominating Committee of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has launched a global search for volunteer members to serve on the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB), an independent standard-setting body that develops and maintains accrual-based International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), IPSASB Sustainability Reporting Standards (IPSASB SRS), and other high-quality reporting guidance for use by governments and public sector entities worldwide. The Nominating Committee is seeking nominations from a wide range of relevant backgrounds and experience, such as strong knowledge of financial or sustainability reporting issues. The deadline for submitting applications is January 31, 2026 and the Call for Nominations has more details and information on how to submit an application. Nature Action 100 releases its first status report showcasing initiative progress and investor insights The global investor-led engagement initiative Nature Action 100 has published its first status report, highlighting the progress made by the initiative since its 2022 launch. The Nature Action 100 Status Report features key insights and case studies from investor participants who are engaging companies on nature action. The growth in the number of investor participants to over 240 representing more than $30 trillion assets under management or advice underscores the growing interest by investors to acknowledge the financial materiality of nature and biodiversity loss and engage companies to capitalize on new business opportunities and mitigate financial risks. A conservative estimate pins the economic cost of nature loss across Nature Action 100’s eight priority sectors – including food, forestry and packaging, and chemicals – at $430 billion per year globally, representing a cumulative loss of $2.15 trillion over five years if left unchecked. Articles ISSB to Develop Standards for Nature-Related Reporting (ESG Today) TNFD to Pause New Work After ISSB Takes Over Nature Reporting Standard Setting (ESG Today) No, Bill Gates, we don’t have to choose between people & planet (commentary) (Mongabay) What the booming net zero sector means for accountants (ICAEW Insights) Young female workers paid 31% less than male counterparts (Irish Examiner) Hybrid working could help get more disabled people into work, peers say (The Guardian) EU to hit Chinese retailers like Shein and Temu with customs duties (The Journal) Fossil fuel dependence ‘is Ireland’s biggest block’ to achieving carbon emissions cuts - ‘Expensive’ fossil fuels subsidised by €4.7bn of taxpayers’ money as Climate Change Advisory Council warns over ‘harmful use’ (Irish Times) Limits of heavy-load transport will hit electricity supplies, hauliers warn (Irish Times)   Jobs Financial Services - Climate Change and Sustainability Services - Senior Consultant (EY) Technical Roundup (From our colleagues in Professional Accounting) Following on from its “VSME in Action” event held on 6 October, EFRAG have released a summary of the event containing an event report, recordings and slides. Following its recent response to EFRAG’s Exposure Draft on the amended European Sustainability Reporting Standards, Accountancy Europe has shared some of its thoughts and key suggestions in relation to the proposed amendments. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) has issued its October 2025 update. Following the rejection of the simplified rules for sustainability reporting and due diligence obligations in the EU Parliament on 22 October, MEP’s will again vote on amendments at the upcoming Plenary Session on 13 November.   Events Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Responsible Business Compass This kick-off event, developed with the OECD and funded by the European Commission, will explore the evolving responsible business regulatory landscape and introduce the Responsible Business Compass — a tool designed to help businesses, especially SMEs, better understand their obligations and reduce administrative burden. In-person, 19 November 2025, 9:30am–5:00pm (registration and networking from 9:00am), 15 George’s Quay, Dublin 2 iQuest / Business Post Live, ESG Summit Autumn 2025 This ESG Summit will explore how sustainability is becoming central to business strategy. With a focus on regulatory shifts, climate transition planning, ESG data governance, and nature-positive outcomes, the event brings together business leaders, policymakers, and sustainability professionals to share insights and practical strategies. In-person, 20 November 2025, 8:45am–5:00pm, Croke Park, Dublin Business in the Community Ireland, Launch of Ireland’s First Climate Transition Plan Scorecard BITCI, in partnership with DCU Institute for Climate and Society, will launch Ireland’s first Climate Transition Plan Scorecard. The Scorecard assesses corporate climate plans across nine key areas and is part of BITCI’s Accelerate campaign. In-person, 20 November 2025, 3:00pm–4:00pm (wine reception until 5:00pm), Sky Suite, Radisson Blu, Golden Lane, Dublin 8 Chartered Accountants Ireland, Network for Chartered Accountants working in ESG This informal network offers Chartered Accountants working in ESG/Sustainability a space to connect, share insights, and discuss challenges and opportunities in the field. Members working on ESG-related projects are encouraged to join and contribute to the conversation. Online, 19 November 2025, 2:00pm–3:00pm, Email sustainability@charteredaccountants.ie to join IBEC, Preparing for Severe Weather Events Severe weather conditions can cause major disruption to roads, bus or train infrastructure and therefore, the operation of your business. In this webinar, Dr. Michael Gillen, Head of OSH Policy will review the key points to consider, practical steps and control measures you can put in place. Virtual, 26 November 11:00 - 11:45 InterTradeIreland, Trade Series: Understanding ESG & Sustainability This free webinar will help businesses understand ESG principles, sustainability strategies, and practical steps for compliance and growth. It will cover reporting requirements, risk management, and opportunities for SMEs. Gain practical insights into how ESG and sustainability practices can help your business remain competitive, compliant, and future-ready, as well as an overview of emerging ESG and Sustainability reporting requirements. Online, Wednesday 26 November 2025, 11:00am–12:30pm EY, Four Futures: Exploring Climate Scenarios This immersive workshop invites people to step into the year 2055 and explore four distinct climate scenarios—Business As Usual, Transform, Constrain, and Collapse. Enhanced by the CCaSS team, this updated iteration incorporates the latest insights on climate impacts in Ireland. Participants will dive deeper into key drivers of climate change and examine how Business As Usual and Transform scenarios affect society, business, and the economy. EY Offices, Harcourt Street, Dublin, , D02 YA40, Friday 28 November – Friday 5 December 2025 Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business - Lancaster University,  SMEs - Learning about Nature and Biodiversity This is the first in a series of three free webinars from the Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business aimed at SMEs curious about nature and biodiversity links to business activity. This session provides a natural science introduction to ecosystems and explains how these aspects impact business operations, with examples from different sectors. Virtual, Thursday 15 January 2026, 8:00am – 9:00am | 4.00pm – 5.00pm Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business - Lancaster University, Starting Your Journey with Tools and Frameworks Second in the series, this webinar explores tools and frameworks that support decision-making for nature and biodiversity, including the Natural Capital Protocol and TNFD. Learn how these approaches help businesses identify relevant priorities and communicate outcomes effectively. Virtual, Thursday 12 February 2026, 8:00am – 9: 00am | 4.00pm – 5.00pm Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business - Lancaster University, What Does ‘Good’ Look Like in Corporate Reporting? The final session in the Pentland Centre’s free webinar series for SMEs explores what effective reporting on nature and biodiversity looks like. Drawing on global examples, this webinar highlights best practices and practical approaches for integrating nature and biodiversity into corporate reporting. Virtual, Thursday 12 March 2026, 8:00am – 9:00am | 4.00pm – 5.00pm   Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

Kingsley Aikins is founder of The Networking Institute. His new book, Networking Matters: The Power of Human Connection, is launching on 4 December at Chartered Accountants House, Dublin. Members are invited to attend the book launch, at which Kingsley will give a mini masterclass on the essentials of networking, a flavour of which he provides below. In a world that is constantly changing and facing unpredictable challenges – such as financial crises, pandemics, and geopolitical conflicts – resilience is essential for both individuals and organisations. One of the most important assets in navigating these turbulent times is a strong and diverse personal network. Networking is a critical human skill that can help us survive disruptions, adapt to new circumstances, and thrive in an ever-evolving environment. Dealing with disruption Modern times are marked by unexpected events, often referred to as ‘black swan’ events, which are rare, unpredictable, and have far-reaching consequences. Examples include the COVID-19 pandemic, the invasion of Ukraine, and conflict in the Middle East. In the face of such shocks, personal networks are more important than ever. As companies adjust their workforces and individuals reconsider their careers, networks become essential for finding new opportunities. Today, job positions are often temporary, but networks provide enduring value. Whether times are good or bad, strong networks are critical for personal and professional success. The myth of individualism Success is often portrayed as the result of individual qualities such as talent, education, perseverance, courage, luck, and effort. However, relationships and connections with others are equally important. The myth of the self-made individual overlooks the fact that opportunities are attached to people, and creativity flourishes when talented individuals collaborate. While individuals can make a difference, they rarely achieve lasting success alone; strong networks are vital for both survival and achievement. As careers progress, it becomes clear that opportunities arise through people, and collaboration fosters innovation. Everyone we meet connects us to new possibilities and perspectives. Your next job: the changing nature of careers The traditional model of lifelong employment has changed dramatically. Job security is now rare, and the old social contract of loyalty in exchange for security no longer exists. Companies today have shorter lifespans, and people often outlive the organisations they work for. The step-by-step career ladder has been replaced by a more dynamic and flexible ‘jungle gym’ approach, where frequent moves and varied experiences are valued. Most new jobs are found through personal contacts rather than advertisements, and the most desirable positions are often never advertised. Research has shown that ‘weak connections’ or casual acquaintances at the edges of our networks, are especially powerful in uncovering new opportunities. The many benefits of networking Networking offers numerous advantages, including business development, customer acquisition, investment opportunities, supplier relationships, staff retention, and loyalty building. Beyond professional benefits, strong and diverse networks also contribute to longer life, better mental and physical health, greater earnings, and overall happiness. Networking helps combat loneliness and social isolation, which are known to harm health. The Harvard Longitudinal Study has found that our relationships are more important to health and well-being than our genes or lifestyle choices. A sense of belonging and purpose is fundamental to human needs, as recognised by psychologist Abraham Maslow. Strong networks enhance resilience and help individuals recover from adversity, highlighting the importance of authentic social connections in both work and society. Hire and wire: networking in the workplace Companies seek employees with strong and diverse networks, recognising that human capital includes not just knowledge but also connections. When hiring, they consider not only qualifications and experience but also the breadth and quality of candidates' networks. Success increasingly depends on who knows you, rather than just what you know. Many firms, such as McKinsey, have developed robust alumni networks, fostering ongoing engagement and business referrals. These networks also encourage the return of ‘boomerang employees’. who bring valuable experience and connections when they rejoin an organisation. Diversity vs. homophily People tend to form connections with others who share similar backgrounds, values, and interests – a phenomenon known as ‘homophily’. While this is natural, it can limit the diversity of our networks and our exposure to new ideas. Organisations that reflect societal diversity tend to perform better, and individuals benefit from seeking out different perspectives and experiences. Embracing diversity in our networks helps prevent predictable, homogenous thinking and opens us up to new opportunities and insights. Leveraging the intelligence of your network Each person's network is a unique and valuable resource that can transform both individual careers and organisations. Networks provide access to informal information – such as advice, insights, and tips – that is not readily available through formal channels. By engaging with our networks, we can gather critical intelligence, make better decisions, and gain a competitive edge. Many leading, global companies recognise the value of network strength, encouraging employees to build connections and leverage network intelligence. Trust is essential for employees to use their networks for the benefit of the organisation, and a strong network culture fosters both individual and collective growth. Referrals and testimonials One of the most significant advantages of networking is the potential for referrals and recommendations from satisfied contacts. Keeping in touch with past clients and colleagues can lead to new business and opportunities. Although some people hesitate to ask for referrals, it is an essential part of effective networking. Referrals are cost-effective, quick, and often lead to strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Portability of your network Your network is a personal asset that remains with you throughout your career. When you leave a company, your network goes with you, providing ongoing value and support for your career development. Investing in your network is an investment in your own future. Overcoming ‘stranger danger’ Many people feel apprehensive about approaching strangers, a feeling often instilled from childhood. However, most of our important relationships began with someone who was once a stranger. Networking helps us overcome this fear and recognise the potential for transformative opportunities that can arise from a single introduction or conversation. As our careers progress, it becomes increasingly important to expand our circles and stay aware of the achievements and movements of others. The ‘Network Gap’ LinkedIn has identified a ‘network gap’, where some individuals have a significant advantage in accessing opportunities based on their connections. Factors such as upbringing, education, and work history can provide up to a 12-fold advantage in opportunity access. Research shows that 70% of professionals are hired by companies where they already have a connection. Addressing the network gap is essential to ensure equal access to opportunities for people with similar talent and skills, regardless of their background. Digital opportunities Digital technology has revolutionised networking, making it easier and more affordable to connect with anyone, anywhere. Geographic location is now less important than what you do, and digital platforms enable rapid, direct communication. These changes, including the integration of artificial intelligence, have fundamentally transformed how we build and maintain networks. The ripple effect Networking creates a ripple effect, where your reputation and influence extend far beyond your immediate contacts. Your actions and interactions can impact people you have never met, and acts of kindness and generosity can inspire positive cycles within your network and beyond. Practising random acts of kindness can strengthen connections and foster a culture of generosity. Conclusion As you advance in your career, the importance of networks and relationships increases. The skills that helped you secure your initial position become less central, while the relationships you build become the key to ongoing success and growth.

The Law Society of Ireland has announced that its new online portal for Reporting Accountants to upload an annual or closing reporting accountant’s report for a Solicitor client on to the Law Society’s system is at an advanced stage and is nearly ready to launch.  Readers can learn more on this new portal on the Law Society’s news page, Chartered Accountants Ireland understands that the Law Society will begin to directly contact all Reporting Accountants over the coming days with details on how they can register for this new Portal. This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in these pages purports to provide professional advice or definitive legal interpretation(s) or opinion(s) on the applicable legislation or legal or other matters referred to in the pages. If the reader is in doubt on any matter in this complex area further legal or other advice must be obtained. While every reasonable care has been taken by the Institute in the preparation of these pages, we do not guarantee the accuracy or veracity of any resource, guidance, information or opinion, or the appropriateness, suitability or applicability of any practice or procedure contained therein. The Institute is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of the resources or information contained in these pages.  

On 11 November, the Ulster Society hosted the second in a series of financial wellbeing webinars in partnership with Legacy Wealth Management, aimed at helping members to boost both their advisory capabilities and their own personal financial wellbeing. This session offers a practical refresher on Inheritance Tax (IHT), covering current thresholds, exemptions, and reliefs. It explores how lifetime gifts and various trusts can help mitigate IHT liabilities, while highlighting common pitfalls and the importance of regularly reviewing wills and estate plans to stay aligned with changing tax rules and personal circumstances. A recording of this webinar is available to view, for free and on demand, HERE A pdf copy of the slides used in this presentation is available HERE

In Irish news, Revenue has issued updated guidance on the Key Employee Engagement Programme (KEEP) and the Fiscal Monitor for October 2025 has been released. In UK news today, HMRC launches its refreshed mobile app as part of last week’s Talk Money Week and we bring the usual miscellaneous updates, as well as our regular cross-border developments and trading corner. In International news this week, the EU heads of tax administration reaffirm their commitment to cooperation between Member States. Ireland 1. Revenue has recently published updated guidance on the Key Employee Engagement Programme (KEEP) clarifying the limits applicable to a qualifying share option.  2. The Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform have published the Fiscal Monitor for October 2025 which confirms an Exchequer deficit of €0.9 billion to the end of October. UK 3. HMRC has introduced an updated mobile app which taxpayers are being encouraged to use to access information on tax, National Insurance, and state pensions. 4. Read about recent cross-border developments and other miscellaneous updates. International 5. The annual summit of EU Tax Administrations was held last week and attended by representatives from EU member states. 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.

The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (UK) 5000, “General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements”, which provides UK companies, investors and assurance providers with a consistent, internationally aligned assurance standards for voluntary use in sustainability assurance engagements. ISSA (UK) 5000 is a UK version of the global benchmark standard for sustainability assurance, developed by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB). Its introduction for use in the UK demonstrates the FRC’s continued support for globally aligned assurance standards that underpin quality assurance engagements. The Standard provides comprehensive requirements for conducting sustainability assurance engagements, applicable to both limited and reasonable assurance, and is designed to be profession-agnostic. The UK Standard is intended for voluntary use by UK assurance providers and aligns with the international standard.

Revenue has updated guidance on Relevant Contracts Tax for Principal Contractors to include links to related resources to assist in the determination of the employment status of subcontractors.

Revenue has updated guidance on PAYE settlement agreements  to include a new section  relating to the repayment of overpaid income tax, PRSI and USC in respect of prior years. Where the taxpayer (in this case, the employer) has overpaid an amount of tax under the settlement agreement a claim for repayment can be made subject to the four-year time limit. Revenue intends contacting taxpayers who entered into settlement agreements for the tax years, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Employers seeking a refund must review the correspondence received from Revenue, write to the appropriate Revenue division in line with the instructions included in the correspondence and include all requested documentation. Each refund claim will be assessed individually based on its specific facts and circumstances and if a refund is approved, Revenue confirms in the guidance that interest of 0.011 percent per day will be paid from the date the tax was originally paid until the refund is issued under Section 865A(1) TCA 1997. The example in the guidance has also been updated to reflect PRSI rates applicable from 1 October 2025.

Revenue has updated its guidance on income tax relief for health insurance covering medical and /or dental benefits to outline an administrative practice that will take effect from 1 January 2026.  From this date, Revenue will accept that the standard rate of tax, currently 20 percent, will apply to all health insurance policies providing medical cover. This rate will be applied to the lesser of the premium paid or the applicable cap. Prior to 1 January 2026, where a health insurance policy covers both eligible and ineligible benefits for income tax relief purposes under section 469 TCA 1999, a blended rate of tax relief is applied. The pre-1 January 2026 position will continue to apply to health insurance policies providing dental cover. The guide provides examples of the pre and post 1 January 2026 position in section two. From an administrative perspective, the guidance has been renamed and details relating to the tax treatment of premium refunds made due to Covid-19 has been removed as it is no longer relevant. Revenue contact details in respect of claims by authorised insurers has also been updated in the guidance.

In this week’s cross-border trading corner, we bring you the latest guidance updates and publications. The most recent Trader Support Service bulletin is also available, as is the latest Brexit and Beyond newsletter from the Northern Ireland Assembly EU Affairs team. Miscellaneous guidance updates and publications This week’s miscellaneous guidance updates and publications are as follows: CDS Declaration Completion Instructions for Imports Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme registered businesses list External temporary storage facilities codes for Data Element 5/23 of the Customs Declaration Service Data Element 2/3: Documents and Other Reference Codes (Union) of the Customs Declaration Service Check if a business holds Authorised Economic Operator status Additional Information (AI) Statement Codes for Data Element 2/2 of the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) Reference Documents for The Customs Tariff (Preferential Trade Arrangements) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 Check if you can claim a waiver for goods brought into Northern Ireland HMRC email updates, videos and webinars for VAT Designated land, sea and air ports for trading or moving CITES-listed endangered species