Revenue has announced today that it is extending the Local Property Tax (LPT) filing deadline to 5.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. To support property owners, Revenue’s LPT Helpline (01 738 3626) will operate extended opening hours in the lead-up to the new deadline. For Monday and Tuesday, the LPT Helpline will operate between 9.00am and 8.00pm and on Wednesday it will operate from 9.00am to 4.30pm.  You can read the full press release here.

In this week’s Sustainability/ESG Bulletin, read about the report warning how extreme weather events will test Ireland’s economic and financial resilience and the Department of Finance’s report into potential long-term impacts of global megatrends, like climate change, on Ireland’s economy and public finances. Also covered is the announcement by the EIB of new support to develop Ireland’s district heating systems, the agreement by EU Member States on emissions targets, the proposed changes to carbon accounting, and the landmark European Court of Human Rights ruling setting a precedent for climate accountability, as well as the usual articles, jobs and upcoming events.   IRELAND Report into climate adaptation finance identifies shortfalls in Ireland’s resilience A new joint report by the Climate Change Advisory Council and the Central Bank of Ireland has warned that the deployment of climate adaptation finance is below what is required to address the escalating risks posed by climate change. Without action, the impact of extreme weather events will test Ireland’s economic and financial resilience. The report, Funding Climate Adaptation in Ireland, emphasises the importance of credible transition plans to build resilience in the financial sector and contribute to a resilient economy. Actionable solutions include transition planning that incorporates adaptation, and the development of scalable, investable project models, and a register of successful adaptation projects to build momentum and share solutions. Report publishes on long-term fiscal and economic assessment of Ireland’s needs The Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe TD, has published Future Forty: A Fiscal and Economic Outlook to 2065 examining the long-term impacts of global megatrends and other structural shifts and their potential impact on Ireland’s economy and public finances in the years ahead. In total, over 2,000 scenarios have been modelled, which collectively point to a continued growth in living standards, but with slowing growth over the long-term, and a steady decline of our fiscal position. Among the key economic and fiscal drivers identified as contributing to this is the long-term costs of decarbonisation and climate mitigation along with demographic shifts and slowing productivity, and a slowdown in corporation tax receipts. The next decade is highlighted as a window of critical opportunity to boost economic growth potential, address the structural challenges and avail of the opportunities that may lie ahead. Ireland responds to EU’s proposed 2040 climate target Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien has welcomed the EU’s agreement on a proposed 2040 climate target and updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) (see below), praising in particular its recognition of “the particular characteristics of our agriculture sector” and the importance of energy affordability and social cohesion. The announcement follows the publication of reports by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that Ireland is significantly off  track to meet its legally binding 2030 emissions reduction goals, with agriculture accounting for over 37.8 percent of Ireland’s total greenhouse gas emissions — the largest share of any sector. Other reports point to continued degradation of Ireland’s water quality caused by excess nutrients from agriculture, urban wastewater and other human activities. Separately, Taoiseach Michael Martin attended the two-day World Leaders Climate Action Summit in Belém, Brazil, which brings together heads of state and government, ministers, and leaders of international organizations to discuss pressing climate change challenges and commitments. Commenting, Taoiseach Martin said that there needs to be more leaders "ready to tell it as it is" and that Ireland is adapting by investing in flood relief schemes and coastal defences, early-warning systems and sustainable agriculture and industrial practices. Over the coming weeks Chartered Accountants Ireland will provide coverage of the climate summit, and potential impacts to business on its Sustainability Centre. European Investment Bank (EIB) announces new supports for Ireland’s district heating The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced new technical and financial advisory support to help Ireland develop district heating systems. Heating accounts for more than one-third of Ireland’s energy-related emissions, with more than 80 percent of households still relying on fossil fuels. District heating—common across Nordic and central European countries—offers a proven way to decarbonise heating by using renewable, waste, and low-carbon heat sources. It also provides more stable, predictable costs and the opportunity to shield connected households from market volatility.  Ireland’s networks currently supply less than 1 percent of national heat demand, highlighting a major opportunity for growth. The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment has opened an Expression of Interest (EoI) through the SEAI website, for interested parties to be considered for the fund. EUROPE Member States agree on emissions targets Member States of the European Union have agreed on new EU Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30). This annual global climate change conference begins in Belém, Brazil, on 10 November. The new EU NDC, which will now be submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is to reduce net GHG emissions by 66.25 –72.5 % below 1990 levels by 2035, and by 90 percent by 2040. The agreement followed protracted talks among environment ministers in Brussels and included flexibility about how that target could be met, such as the ability to buy carbon “credits” to allow EU countries to finance climate action elsewhere and count that financing towards up to 5 percent of their own reduction targets. This has drawn criticism as allowing for carbon credits means the actual impact on reductions in emissions could be lower than what is needed to arrest climate change. The 2040 climate target can become law following approval by MEPs in the European Parliament. European Union ‘largely on track’ to achieve 2030 targets A report published by the European Environment Agency has found that the European Union remains largely on track to achieve its 2030 targets to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions. Trends and projections in Europe 2025 estimates that total net greenhouse gas emissions in the EU fell by a further 2.5 percent in 2024. It further found that EU Member States are expected to collectively achieve a net emissions reduction of 54 percent by 2030 compared with 1990 levels, which is just under the 55 percent reduction target. The report also notes that while several developments will require focused attention in the coming years, the foundation for progress is in place: recent years have seen a rapid acceleration in emission reductions and the emergence of numerous technological and policy solutions. However, it also underscores the scale of the remaining challenge — in particular, the need to strengthen more resilient carbon sinks, accelerate transport decarbonisation and ensure delivery at national level. Separately the latest European Environment Agency (EEA) review of national climate adaptation actions highlights that while European countries have made substantial progress in planning for climate adaptation and with adopting policies, implementation and evaluation need to be significantly strengthened to ensure actions effectively address the escalating climate risks Europe faces. WORLD COP30 “Return on Action” Campaign The We Mean Business Coalition, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, and partners are inviting companies to participate in the COP30 “Return on Action” campaign. The initiative showcases how corporate climate action is delivering tangible benefits — from green jobs and energy security to cost savings and sustainable growth. The aim is to “send a clear signal to Heads of State, environment ministers, fellow corporate leaders and concerned citizens, that business remains committed to deliver on the promise of the Paris Agreement” .Their goal is to take over the online conversation for 24 hours during the COP30 negotiations, thereby generating media coverage, and “send an unmissable message to policy makers and the public about the unstoppable momentum of corporate climate leadership.” Businesses are encouraged to submit case studies demonstrating impact, which will be reshared globally on 12 November during COP30 to highlight collective momentum and reinforce commitment to the Paris Agreement. For more information or to get involved, contact cop@wmbcoalition.org  or access the Q&A here. Proposed changes to carbon accounting The Greenhouse Gas Protocol, the leading international standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions from companies and governments, has launched a public consultation for updates to its guidance on Scope 2 emissions, i.e. emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heat, and cooling. The proposed revisions aim to improve accuracy while keeping reporting clear, consistent, and manageable for organisations of all sizes and reflecting the world’s rapidly changing energy landscape. Proposals involve stricter requirements for both location- and market-based reporting, with final revisions expected in 2027. The 60-day public consultation period began on October 20, 2025 and will run until December 19, 2025. Landmark ruling sets precedent for climate accountability The European Court of Human Rights has reportedly set a precedent for climate accountability in a landmark ruling on the case of Greenpeace Nordic and Others v. Norway. The Court held that when making a decision in the context of the environment and climate change, the State had to carry out an adequate, timely and comprehensive environmental impact assessment in good faith, and based on the best available science. The case began in 2016 with Greenpeace Nordic, Nature and Youth, and six activists challenging Norway’s decision to open parts of the Barents Sea to oil exploration, arguing that the licences violated their rights under the European Convention on Human Rights. The impact of setting science-based targets on businesses The SBTi has released a new report demonstrating that science-based targets deliver competitive advantage—not just climate impact. In The Impact of Setting Science-Based Targets on Businesses report, a survey of 171 companies, a literature review of 22 studies, and three case studies indicate that companies benefit from a wide range of positive effects as a result of setting science-based targets. This ranges from improved investor relations to better financing terms, enhanced strategic cohesion, more alignment with suppliers, and resilience across multiple areas of risk, in addition to higher climate ambition and a faster pace of decarbonisation. Articles Turning Uncertainty into Action: Why Every Business Needs a Climate Transition Plan (IBEC) DEI isn’t dead, it’s just reincarnating (Financial Times) Climate and affordability are at the heart of Zohran Mamdani’s mayoral bid (Sustainable Views – Subscription needed) Critical minerals shortage threatens EU energy transition (Accountancy Ireland - Briefly)   Jobs Financial Services - Climate Change and Sustainability Services - Senior Consultant (EY)   Events Business for Biodiversity Ireland, Supporting Action for Business & Biodiversity BFBI, in partnership with Waterford City & County Council Climate Action Team, will host a free webinar to help Irish businesses understand their relationship with nature and develop a strong Nature Strategy. The session will explore how biodiversity adds value and resilience to organisations. Online, 11 November 2025, 11:00am–12:00pm Irish Green Building Council, IGBC Lunch & Learn: Promoting Business Benefits of Sustainable Strategies for SMEs This one-hour webinar, hosted in collaboration with Bank of Ireland, explores how SMEs can unlock business value through sustainability—covering cost savings, brand enhancement, and access to financial supports, with expert insights and practical tools including the Sustainability Business Coach Virtual, Wednesday 12 November 2025, 1:00pm – 2:00pm Ibec Networks Autumn Seminar Series, Session 4: The culture of sustainability innovation The final webinar in a four-part series Autumn Seminar Series ‘The culture equation’ looks at what supports are available to assist on a journey to becoming a more sustainable business. In the supporting case study from O'Brien's Fine Foods the webinar will discuss what drives a sustainability focused culture in an organisation. Virtual, Thursday 13 November, 11.00-11.50am Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), SEAI Webinar: Supporting SMEs on the Path to Sustainability This webinar will explore how small and medium-sized enterprises can adopt sustainable practices, reduce energy costs, and access available supports. The session will include expert guidance and practical tools tailored to SME needs. Virtual, Thursday 14 November 2025, 11:00am – 12:00pm  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 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 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   Sustainability Centre You can find information, guidance and supports to understand sustainability and meet the challenges it presents in our online Sustainability Centre.  

ESB has been announced as the Overall Winner for this year’s Chartered Accountants Leinster Society Published Accounts Awards, in addition to winning the ‘Statutory or Unlisted Entity (IFRS)’ Award category.  The Leinster Society have been proudly hosting the Published Accounts Awards for 48 years. These awards honour outstanding achievement in corporate reporting; celebrating companies across the island of Ireland that demonstrate excellence, transparency, and innovation in financial communication. Companies simply submit their annual report, which then goes through a round of technical reviewing, before a team of external judges make their final decision. A lot of hard work goes into producing the annual reports, and the Leinster Society are proud to showcase that hard work. The awards, sponsored by Euronext and Arachas, took place in the Shelbourne Hotel on Thursday 6 November, with host Mario Rosenstock who had us all laughing from the moment he stepped into the room in a questionable wig. From beginning to end there was a buzz of excitement and energy in the room. A total of 27 public and private companies, and 9 not-for-profit organisations competed as finalists across thirteen distinct awards categories. A huge congratulations to all of our winners, see full list below. Check out the photos of the night here. Award 2025 Winner Euronext Dublin (Large Cap > €1bn) Glanbia Euronext Dublin (SME < €1bn) Dalata Company Listed on a Foreign Market Grafton Group Euronext Growth Award Uniphar Statutory or Unlisted Entity (IFRS) ESB Statutory or Unlisted Entity (Non-IFRS) daa Arachas Large Not-for-Profit Concern Worldwide Arachas Small / Medium Not-for-Profit Dogs Trust Sustainability & ESG Reporting Award (UnlistedEntity) Northern Ireland Water Diversity & Inclusion Award (Listed orUnlistedEntity) Bank of Ireland Diversity & Inclusion Award (Not-for-Profit) The Wheel Branding, Communication & Digital Award Dogs Trust Overall Winner ESB   'ESB’s Finance team works closely with colleagues across the organisation to produce an Annual Report which provides our stakeholders with the financial and non-financial information they need to understand ESB’s performance, business model, net zero strategy and contribution to Irish society. This award is testimony to the hard work of our people over many years to continuously raise the standards of our Annual Report year-on-year. The theme of our Annual Report this year was “Empowering the Sustainable Energy Transition”, and we put a particular focus on our disclosures around “Planet, Place and People” in advance of the implementation of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, which ESB will be voluntarily applying. ' Stephen Walsh, Group Financial Performance Manager, ESB "Dogs Trust Ireland is honoured to receive two Published Accounts Awards. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our team and their commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence. Sharing the impact of our work openly with our supporters and stakeholders is central to who we are, and it’s deeply rewarding to see that commitment acknowledged in this way." Karla Dunne, Interim Executive Director, Dogs Trust “Sustainability reporting extends beyond mere disclosure; it represents a commitment to accountability, transparency, and alignment with the Paris Agreement targets. By realigning strategies with science-based goals and conducting a double materiality assessment, businesses can integrate emission reduction, water and biodiversity conservation, robust social and governance practices, and sustainable finance considerations into their strategic planning. To achieve meaningful progress, organisations should also embed circular economy principles, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and enhance climate resilience. Companies that adopt this holistic approach are better positioned to drive responsible growth, create long-term value, and contribute to a sustainable global economy.” Anthony Raivellur, Judge, Former EY and Deloitte Sustainability Professional "The judging panel were incredibly impressed by the high quality of each report shortlisted, and the responsible teams should be immensely proud of their talent and dedication.  he ultimate winner in each category stood out by exemplifying the high standards of quality that we were looking for and have set a standard that other plcs, unlisted companies and charities can aspire to "  Maeve O'Connor, Judge and Group Financial Controller , Hostelworld “The standard of accounts continues to improve year on year with a noticeable effort for accounts to refer to risk factors and strategy achievements.  The leading accounts all have unique and helpful aspects such as informative  graphs and 5 year comparison tables” Gavin O’Flaherty, Judge and corporate partner, William Fry  “It was encouraging to see sustainability approached more holistically this year. The best reports moved beyond environmental checklists and spoke about people, community, and purpose. When brands align sustainability with authentic human connection, that’s when it becomes a meaningful part of their identity.” The full judging panel for the Branding, Communication and Digital Award: Larry Byrne of Larry Byrne Design  Andrea Kavanagh of Resonate Design Barbara Monahan of CUBE Design    

Welcome to the latest edition of Technical Roundup. In developments since the last edition, the Charity SORP making body has published the latest version of the SORP, the IFRS Foundation has published its latest compilation of IFRIC’s agenda decisions and IAASA has published some highlights from their recent Audit Committee Briefing. The EU and UK Government have also updated their sanctions measures. Read more on these and other developments that may be of interest to members below. Financial Reporting The FRC has issued two thematic reviews to enhance the quality of, and provide insights into, UK company reporting in respect of investment companies and share-based payments. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is hosting an online roundtable session on Tuesday 18 November looking for feedback from UK companies who follow the Corporate Governance Code. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has issued a consultation on the Actuarial Standard Technical Memorandum 1 (AS TM1) which proposes no significant amendments to the standard. The FRC has published a discussion paper on future technical development of UK digital reporting taxonomies inviting feedback from stakeholders across the digital reporting ecosystem.  Comments are requested by 11 January 2026. The FRC has published its guidance to the UK Stewardship Code 2026. This optional guidance offers suggestions for the types of information organisations may want to include in their reports which explain their approach to stewardship. The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) has issued a statement highlighting the importance of high-quality valuation information in financial reporting. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published the latest edition of its “Spotlight on the Market” Newsletter. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) has published its final comment letter in response to the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB’s) Request for Information on the Post-implementation Review of IFRS 16 Leases. EFRAG are currently holding two surveys of SMEs across the EU. The surveys- which address the needs of start-ups and SMEs, and challenges for finance providers- remain open until 17th November. The IASB has released a series of webcasts to assist SMEs in applying the third edition of the IFRS for SMEs Accounting Standard. The most recently released webcast looks at Section 12 Fair Value Measurement. The IASB has released its October 2025 Update and Podcast. The IFRS Foundation has published Compilation of Agenda Decisions – Volume 13. This covers decisions made by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) from May 2025 to October 2025. IFRIC has also issued its Q3 2025 Podcast. The UK Endorsement Board (UKEB) has issued a summary of its recent report entitled “An Approach to Estimating Capital Market Effects”. The UKEB has also published its latest work plan. Accountancy Europe has issued its October 2025 Newsletter. The Consultative Committee of Accounting Bodies (CCAB) has published the new edition of the LLPs SORP. Auditing and Assurance IAASA has released its third publication as part of its 2025 AQS Insight Series which focuses on key messages for auditors in relation to IFRS 17. The FRC has published a report setting out the key findings and good practice they have identified in the 2023/4 and 2024/5 inspection cycles related to the audits of the twelve largest audit firms. IAASA has published highlights from their recent Audit Committee Briefing. Sustainability 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. Charities The Charity SORP making body has issued the October 2025 edition of the Charity SORP. For Charities who apply the SORP these changes will be effective for periods commencing on or after 1 January 2026 and take into account the changes arising from the 2024 Periodic Review of FRS 102. The Charities Regulator has established a Consultative Panel on the advancement of human rights as a charitable purpose. The Charities Regulator has released Issue 36 of its Regulator Newsletter. This includes some updated guidance on internal financial controls for charities, details of a dedicated webpage which summarises the main changes included in the Charities (Amendment) Act 2024 and new guidance on recognising and addressing dominant behaviour in Charities. Carmichael have issued the 14th edition of their “Governance Dilemma” series, which discusses real-life challenges faced by boards of non-profit organisations. This edition looks at difficult circumstances a charity might be faced with when both a CEO and Board Chair resign suddenly, and a board member encounters pressure to step up to fill the vacant position. Anti-money laundering and Fraud The Professional Standards Department at Chartered Accountants Ireland has published its AML Supervision Report 2024/25. The UK government announced in its AML Supervision Reform Response Document that AML/CFT responsibilities including supervision for professional services (legal, accountancy, and trust and company service providers (TCSPS)) will be consolidated and handled by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) creating a Single Professional Services Supervisor (SPSS). It has now issued a consultation on the subject which will run from 6th November 2025 to 24th December 2025. The European Banking Authority (EBA) published its fifth and final report on the Functioning of Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Colleges. This report sets out findings and observations from the EBA's monitoring of AML/CFT colleges, which suggest that, overall, competent authorities continued to use colleges to share relevant information that could enhance the effectiveness of supervision. The EBA also highlights the need for continued progress on key priorities of the AML/CFT Colleges to ensure effectiveness of the work and functioning of the Colleges going forward. From 1 January 2026, the responsibility to monitor AML/CFT colleges will be transferred to the European AML Authority (AMLA). The findings from this report will be relevant for AMLA as it builds its supervisory framework. AML/CFT colleges will remain a key cooperation tool under the new legislative framework, as the AML/CFT colleges framework was enshrined in the AMLD6. The European Banking Authority (EBA) responded to the European Commission’s Call for Advice on the key components of the new AML/CFT framework. This advice puts forward a risk-based and proportionate approach that will support the swift and effective start of the Anti-Money Laundry Authority (AMLA) operations. The EBA’s response outlines details regarding certain draft regulatory technical standards in key areas including the risk assessment AMLA will use to determine the institutions it will directly supervise and information obliged entities will have to obtain as part of the customer due diligence process under the new AML/CFT regime. Please refer to the attached detailed report for details of all areas covered in this Call for Advice. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) published an update from its Plenary meeting including an update regarding FATF assessments under the new round of mutual evaluations, jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring and an update regarding jurisdictions no longer under Increased Monitoring. In addition, an update regarding jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action was also included. The FATF also approved a new Horizon Scan, to notify public and private sectors around the world about current and potential future illicit finance risks presented by artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes.  Sanctions news The European Union has adopted the 19th package of sanctions against Russia. The new package of sanctions substantially increases the pressure on the Russian war economy, targeting key sectors such as energy, finance, the military industrial base, special economic zones, as well as enablers and profiteers of its war of aggression. Sanctions include an introduction of a total ban on Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and a further clamp-down on the shadow fleet. Measures also target financial services and infrastructure (including for the first time crypto), as well as trade, the services sector, and strengthen anti-circumvention tools.  The UK Government is making some changes and updates in relation to sanctions .On 3 November it launched a new sanctions enforcement action page on GOV.UK that brings together sanctions enforcement information from across HM Government - including penalty notices, annual reviews, case studies and key lessons for industry. In the UK the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) issued its Annual Review 2024 to 2025 and click to read more on the OFSI webpages. It was also announced that there will be a move to a single list for UK sanctions designations from 28 January 2026. Currently the OFSI Consolidated List from HMT provides information relating to asset freeze and investment ban targets across all financial sanctions’ regimes implemented in the UK. This list will close at 09:00GMT on Wednesday 28 January 2026 and from then the UK Sanctions List will be the only source for all UK sanctions designations. Guidance has been issued on moving to a single list for UK sanctions designations where you can read more about the changes. Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) In a speech by the Deputy Governor Colm Kincaid to the Central Bank of Ireland’s Consumer Protection Code Workshop, the Deputy Governor highlighted what firms should consider when implementing modernised provisions to protect consumers in vulnerable circumstances. This is in the context of the new Consumer Protection Code, which will come into force for regulated financial service providers in March 2026. The CBI provided an update on the Eurosystem moving to the next phase of the digital Euro project. The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) has decided to move to the next phase of the digital euro project. This decision follows the successful completion of the preparation phase, launched by the Eurosystem in November 2023, which laid the foundations for issuing a digital euro.  The CBI announced an enforcement action against a virtual asset service provider for breaching its anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing transaction monitoring obligations between 2021 and 2025. The fine amounted to €21,464,734. For more details, please refer to the following link on the CBI’s website. Artificial Intelligence (AI) The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has issued a Guidance Document for use by all parties who may apply AI tools to assist them in the preparation and submission of material or documents with respect to evidence in their case. The Department of Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment (DETE) announced that the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) published a new report examining ‘How AI is transforming the Irish labour market’. The report highlights that Ireland leads in terms of the demand for AI related jobs, AI related jobs and usage in Ireland have doubled since 2023, and Ireland ranks 3rd in the EU in terms of digital skills. Cybersecurity The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in Ireland issued an alert regarding F5 devices and products. The advisory applies to organisations operating F5 BIG-IP, BIG-IP Next, F5OS-A/C, or Silverline devices, particularly those running versions listed in the advisory. NCSC advises to take certain actions including reviewing the security incident advisory and F5 guidance document, consulting details regarding affected versions and patch levels, applying recommended fixes and patches, and perform any necessary upgrades. In addition, the NCSC Ireland also issued an alert regarding a remote code execution vulnerability in Windows Server Update Service (WSUS) and strongly recommends installing updates for vulnerable systems with the highest priority, after thorough testing. Affected organisations should review the latest release notes and install the relevant updates from Microsoft. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in partnership with the National Security Agency and international cybersecurity partners, has released Microsoft Exchange Server Security Best Practices. This is a guide to help network defenders harden on-premises Exchange servers against exploitation by malicious actors. The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) published a report regarding cyber threats faced by the public administration sector in the EU in 2024. The report highlights how EU public administrations are increasingly targeted by hacktivists, primarily resorting to Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. Recommendations are also included in the report to mitigate common cyber threats encountered in the public administration sector. Companies Office - Busy Filing period The Irish Companies Registration office has published a notice regarding the annal returns peak filing period. Readers are also referred to our recently published tips and pointers for the busy Annual Return filing season which may help you navigate the process with the Companies Registration Office. We echo the CRO advice to file early, if at all possible. Other news Readers can access here a recent Institute news item on the introduction of the Companies (Protection of Title: Accountant) Bill 2025 in Dáil Éireann. Please click to read the Dept of Enterprise Tourism and Employment Statement of Strategy 2025-2028 which was published in October 2025. Click here to read the Statement of Strategy 2025-2028 press release .Actions referred to include removing unnecessary regulatory or administrative burdens on business, undertaking a periodic critical review of the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority and ensure Ireland has an effective auditing and accounting regime, establishing an updated legal framework for co-ops and enacting the Registration of Limited Partnerships and Business Names Bill, to modernise the legal regime applicable to limited partnerships and facilitate ease of use of this legal vehicle. The Pensions Authority has published a consultation on in-scheme drawdown with a closing date for submissions of 5 December 2025. The Financial Conduct Authority has issued a warning to investors in Contracts for Difference (CFDs) that they risk losing out on protections. The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has adopted the European Commission’s opinions on the extension of the validity of the UK adequacy decisions under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Law Enforcement Directive (LED) until December 2031. The EDPB notes that extension of the validity of the UK adequacy decisions will allow organisations and competent authorities based in Europe to continue transferring data to UK-based organisations and authorities without implementing additional guarantees. It also demonstrates continuing alignment between the UK and Europe’s data protection framework. The European Commission published its 2026 work programme. The 2026 Commission work programme sets out the key strategies, action plans and legislative initiatives that will lay the foundation for the work ahead during this mandate and will help deliver on European Commission’s ambition to build a strong, secure, and prosperous Europe. The focus of the work programme includes sustainable prosperity and competitiveness and simpler rules and stronger delivery. Accountancy Europe has outlined some of the key initiatives on the 2026 work programme that it will be following and contributing to. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) published a statement welcoming the strong initial engagement by National Competent Authorities (NCAs) on cyber risk and digital resilience and calls for continued efforts on the Union Strategic Supervisory Priorities (USSPs) in the context of ESG disclosures. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) has published updated guidance on the remuneration of non-executive directors (NEDs) as part of its regular updates to the guidance supporting the UK Corporate Governance Code 2024.   For further technical information and updates please visit the Technical Hub on the Institute website.    This information is provided as resources and information only and nothing in the information 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 information. 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 the information 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 herein.

On Monday, Chartered Accountants Ireland hosted the second “Trusted Business Leadership: The Chartered Roundtables” event on infrastructure and the National Development Plan (NDP). Held at our Pearse Street offices, the event drew strong member attendance and featured a lively discussion with President Pamela McCreedy and Seán Fleming TD, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee for Infrastructure and NDP Delivery. The roundtable provided robust insights into Ireland’s most ambitious investment plan to date. Members raised questions around planning delays, judicial reviews, and the impact of housing and childcare shortages on business competitiveness. The discussion addressed operational challenges, funding, and the government’s proposed reforms, emphasising the need for streamlined planning and delivery processes and decisive action as Ireland’s population grows. The event reinforced the Institute’s commitment to member advocacy in shaping policy, and we will remain engaged as NDP delivery accelerates.   Chartered Accountants Ireland’s latest roundtable brought members together to discuss the revised National Development Plan - Ireland’s strategic €275.4bn investment in infrastructure and public services. President Pamela McCreedy opened the session, highlighting the Institute’s advocacy for members as the country faces significant delivery challenges.  Seán Fleming TD outlined the NDP’s aims: improving housing, childcare, energy, transport, and water to support growth and prosperity. Members’ questions reflected real-world concerns, including planning delays, judicial review issues, and the impact of “gold plating” regulations. The discussion highlighted progress in accelerating delivery as new legislation is being proposed to tackle planning challenges and the cabinet committee on infrastructure considered measures that could reduce delivery timelines for major projects by up to a year, as part of plans to cut red tape and accelerate progress.  Funding and operational readiness were debated, with a focus on protecting capital spending amid economic volatility. Other topics included the Shared Island initiative, labour shortages in construction, and sustainability targets. Historic successes such as the Ardnacrusha power plant project were cited as examples of what can be achieved with ambition and urgency.  The event underscored the importance of clear communication, transparency in delivery, and continued advocacy throughout the life of the NDP. As Ireland’s population grows and infrastructure demands intensify, members’ insights will remain central to shaping policy.  You can view photos from the event here.    

The Charity SORP making body has published the October 2025 edition of the Charity SORP. Statements of Recommended Practice (SORPs) are sector-driven recommendations on financial reporting which supplement the Financial Reporting Council’s (FRC) accounting standards. The Charity SORP provides guidance on how charities should apply FRS 102 and is mandatorily applicable for certain charities in the UK. In the Republic of Ireland, the SORP is not mandatorily applicable, however, some charities apply it voluntarily. The SORP has been updated to reflect the changes made to FRS 102 as a result of the 2024 Periodic Review by the FRC. For charities using the SORP, the changes will be effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2026. Some key changes include: New reporting tiers, which set out different reporting requirements for charities who fall within each tier. New and enhanced disclosures for the Trustees' Annual Report. More guidance and required disclosures relating to going concern. Guidance on how to apply the FRS 102 5-step model for income received in exchange transactions. A new lease accounting module which explains the new leasing requirements introduced by FRS 102. An increase in the threshold at which a charity is required to produce a cash flow statement to £15 million (provided FRS 102 does not otherwise require a cash flow statement to be prepared). Updated guidance on accounting for social investments to provide clarity and consistency in reporting.   The SORP-making body has also prepared a summary document summarising the changes made in each module.

Climbing your Career Ladder as a Newly Qualified ACA ‘Climbing your career ladder’ can mean many different things. It can mean adding a new skill set or moving from working with financial services clients into industry or getting into a sector that you're really passionate about. It's worth noting that not everyone aims for vertical career growth—priorities like homeownership, travel, and family can influence the pace of your professional journey. The grass isn't always greener on the other side and the key is to do your research. Then you are much better equipped to build the Career pathway for yourself. I have always been amazed by the fact that the people who have stellar careers are not necessarily the top 10 placed ACA’s but rather the ones who know how to read the market, are always discussing their career, looking for the next building block on their cv, and looking to get to know the right people. What extra skills and responsibilities can you squeeze out of your current employer for example sometimes looking internally to your current employer can be a very strong option. Additionally, if you have an internal sponsor in your current company who has your back and wants to see you succeed that can be very powerful. When building a career most of the ACAs I speak to indicate that increased salary and extra money is not necessarily top of their list - it's usually about third on the list. Why not look to get promoted in your current company? There was a great article in Accountancy Ireland last year on how to get promoted. It's a great thing to be able to say when going for interview that you have been earmarked for advancement to the next level based on your strong performance. Are there internal training courses in your current Organisation to avail of ? for example if you're in BIG4. Have you identified that you need more people leadership experience? If so, perhaps this is an extra responsibility that's your current employer can gift to you! Can you move into another division? Can you gain additional systems or ERP experience? If you're innovative by nature perhaps you can suggest and formulate new procedures and efficiencies for your finance division for Department. Remember all these opportunities will become feathers in your cap or small stories to sing your own praises about at interviews in the years ahead. The key is to make sure that the experience you are gaining constitutes the right building blocks for your chosen path and your ultimate goal ie. Your 5 or 10 year plan. Getting involved in PROJECTS can help you pivot off in a slightly different direction with your career and will give you visibility and profile in your organization. It will also  give you the reputation as someone who wants to get involved and get things done it looks great as a value-add on your CV : You develop a whole new set of management skills You gain exposure to new colleagues and senior management It gives your personal brand a major boost   Lateral moves -  Sometimes, a lateral move proves wiser than a hasty vertical leap, allowing for a more strategic career progression. Lateral moves can also involve less pressure and they reinforce your brand and consolidate your expertise in a sector. I see many members who (in a buoyant market) take on new roles which have super salaries and seniority and prestige but can often work out to be a step too far too quickly. In this context sometimes a lateral move can be the clever option and can be the way to scratch itchy feet so to speak … You can enhance your skill sets Gain exposure to new clients Get a broader understanding of your chosen area So for example, moving from a Senior Accountant role in a technology multinational to a Senior Accountant in a Pharma PLC could give you a whole new toolkit for the role pertinent to that new sector rounding you out as a strong experienced finance manager. It will also help you better understand the transferability of your skill sets. As a recently qualified or young professional the wide variety of opportunities and different types of roles available to you post qualification are extensive. Some of you may be in these roles already but for others it can be nice to see the diversity in different styles of opportunities available. Branding Personal Brand and Networking go hand in hand ! As a young professional you do have a personal brand whether you realize it or not - you now have to guard it and grow it.  Your personal brand is how others perceive you, shaping your professional reputation and career prospects. Be visible in work but also with recruiters via LinkedIn and through your personal network. Raise your profile in your current job - this will become ammunition for interviews in the time ahead. Make sure you are recording and calling out your key achievements.   Ask your boss at reviews what you are doing well. Above all - Don't slip into a comfort zone and don't become invisible   Learn how to Showcase your outputs Be able to talk through your success stories comprehensively. Learn how to sing your own praises - many Chartered accountants need to learn and develop this skill! Always Try to be positive and passionate when discussing work Spend time deciding what you want your personal brand to be and what you want to be known for! Your personal brand basically forms the foundation of your career. Over the last decade or so I've always been amazed by ACA members who have taken control of their personal brand and promoted it well.  It really is the secret to advancement! Essentially your PB is what your colleagues say about you when you are not in the room : eg. “he's a technical genius” or “she knows everyone in the whole company” Or “he is a real people leader” or “she is a super communicator and presenter!” These “auras” or “brandings” that people attached to you can give you a real edge might be your differentiator when it comes to career steps.    Networking As a Chartered Accountant one of the most important and powerful things you can do at an early stage of your career is to build your personal network! A strong personal network is the spine of a successful career and without one your career climb will be far more challenging! Actively nurturing your network, both online and offline, lays the foundation for future career opportunities. When you reach FCA status the likelihood that you make a career move by leveraging your network is over 80% so start building it now! So how do I build and grow my network? Stay in touch with ex colleagues Find an excuse to touch base or pick their brains on something Like / connect / share / discuss- particularly in specific groups in LinkedIn (LinkedIn has a whole sub section of visibility and networking unto itself) Stay in contact with people who attend the same conferences and events as you.   LinkedIn   Platforms like LinkedIn offer powerful networking opportunities. Regular interaction, participation in industry groups, and endorsing others' skills can enhance your visibility and credibility. Embracing virtual networking events, especially in the current digital era, facilitates connections with peers and industry professionals. Some brief points I would say about LinkedIn and networking : It's essential nowadays Make it a habitual weekly practice eg. connect with 10 people per week Be polite - use a polite connection message Get into key groups of interest to you and interact, pick brains, say hi, post messages Write recommendations for people Endorse peoples skill-sets Introduce other people to each other – They may refer you to a key contact by return some day. Ultimately the key is to embrace LinkedIn and harness its usefulness : it is your business card nowadays it's the appendix to your CV and it's a powerful online networking tool --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- VIRTUAL NETWORKING in general is the new way of interacting of course and so look for online events through the Institute or other organisations where you can interact with your peer groups. Eg IIA conference or Chamber of Commerce events. The ACA Professionals Group always has upcoming events and as a Newly Qual you should definitely get involved with the group.     CV Your CV is your marketing tool, highlighting your achievements and value proposition to prospective employers. Tailoring your CV to showcase your strengths and accomplishments effectively is crucial. It's advisable to seek feedback and refine your CV to ensure it resonates with potential employers. Know it inside out and be able to talk your way through it clearly Why not have a few versions of your CV with differing flavors also even a one page punchy resumé that you can forward to someone informally along with your LinkedIn profile. It should shout out the ‘Value Add’ that you are bringing to the new employer. One of the things we are always asked is whether you should name clients on your CV. I always say that if they are PLC clients there's no harm at all and can often look good in terms of branding on your CV.Alternatively, just describe the sector and size of the organization you worked on. Make sure to detail your key achievements and sell your skillsets. Review your own CV critically as if you are the employer asking yourself ‘So What?’ after each line !   If you need any guidance or review of your cv just send it in to the Careers Team and we can talk it through with you. 2 small points :   Your Profile Summary can be customized for applications but should be short, punchy and speak to what you are seeking eg “aiming to develop my career in Internal Audit”. Also, use the Other Interests section to help with ice breaking discussions and to indicate your personality. The Interview : So some basic key points about the interview : Its my firm belief every single interview needs a customized interview prep Every Interview is different no two are the same ;  some are formal some informal, some competency based some CV based. It's usually best to be prepared for a competency based interview even if that means deciphering the competencies for yourself from the spec and then building your specific story-form answers. Star shaped answering is always ideal giving good structure to your examples..   The advantage of doing virtual interviews nowadays is that you can have your slippers on and your notes beside you and the fire on in the corner and even have your hand on a mug of coffee if that helps relax you! Face to face interviews are  coming back more and more in the market now however. One thing I always find is a common thread in interviews particularly in a buoyant market is that an employer will hire a person for their attitude, energy, communication style, commercial acumen and or leadership style above all other things. So it's not always about having the right technical answer to an interview question sometimes it's simply how you carry yourself in the interview and what your body language is like in the meeting - Your smile / your eye contact etc essentially the rapport that you build during the interview can be hugely influential and worth  focusing on.  Another thing to remember is that most interviews are a subtle two way interaction with you also judging the interviewer.  Some interviewers are not very good and not very experienced at interviewing and you may need to allow for that. Equally you may be judging subtly whether you want to work for this person and do you like them. If the role is one you are really keen on why not let them know towards the end of the interview that you are being really selective in what you are interviewing for at the moment but this is one of your favourites! Employers hire humans they ‘like’ as opposed to robots and that’s why I always tell members in Interview Prep to go and enjoy the interview and enjoy singing their own praises for once as you rarely get the opportunity.                                   Upon qualification make sure you connect with your ICAI Careers Team to map out the rest of the plan and review the wide variety of ACA paths and market opportunities. Dave Riordan (ACA)   dave.riordan@charteredaccountants.ie  Recruitment Specialist & Career Coach https://www.charteredaccountants.ie/Career-Pathway  

The European Union has adopted the 19th package of sanctions against Russia. The new package of sanctions substantially increases the pressure on the Russian war economy, targeting key sectors such as energy, finance, the military industrial base, special economic zones, as well as enablers and profiteers of its war of aggression. Sanctions include an introduction of a total ban on Russian Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and a further clamp-down on the shadow fleet. Measures also target financial services and infrastructure (including for the first time crypto), as well as trade, the services sector, and strengthen anti-circumvention tools.  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.

The UK Government is making some changes and updates in relation to sanctions. On 3 November it launched a new sanctions enforcement action page on GOV.UK that brings together sanctions enforcement information from across HM Government - including penalty notices, annual reviews, case studies and key lessons for industry. It has also announced that there will be a move to a single list for UK sanctions designations from 28 January 2026. Currently the OFSI Consolidated List from HMT provides information relating to asset freeze and investment ban targets across all financial sanctions’ regimes implemented in the UK. This list will close at 09:00GMT on Wednesday 28 January 2026 and from then the UK Sanctions List will be the only source for all UK sanctions designations. Guidance has been issued on moving to a single list for UK sanctions designations where you can read more about the changes. 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.  

In Irish news, Revenue has issued a reminder about today’s deadline for filing Local Property Tax returns, and Revenue has also released a press statement following the announcement that Fastway Couriers has entered receivership. In UK news today, HMRC provides guidance on choosing software for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax and the most recent Administrative Burdens Advisory Board publishes its annual report. In International news, the EU Commission hosts a dialogue on VAT in the Digital Age. Ireland 1. Revenue has issued a reminder about the Local Property Tax (LPT) filing obligations due today. In addition, Revenue has updated several related LPT guidance documents. 2. Revenue has issued a press release on the potential impact of the recent announcement that Fastway Couriers has entered receivership. UK 3. Read the guidance issued by HMRC on choosing appropriate software for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. 4. The Administrative Burdens Advisory Board has published the results of its annual online survey aimed at improving HMRC's service to small businesses. International 5. Read about the recent dialogue hosted by the EU Commission on the VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA) proposals. 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.

With colder, darker days setting in, people may notice they experience a dip in mood, feel more irritable, fatigued and less motivated. The reason for this may be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or the less-severe form, the winter blues. SAD symptoms are very similar to depression but has a seasonal pattern. The HSE estimates approximately 7% of the population experiences SAD. Here, we share some timely information and advice on how to combat the winter slump.  What causes this? Nobody really truly knows what causes the winter blues or SAD, but some experts believe SAD is caused by fewer hours of sunlight during the winter months that deplete your body’s levels of serotonin – often called the ‘feel-good’ chemical. Low light levels are thought to affect the production of melatonin, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock (or circadian rhythm).  If you’re diagnosed with SAD, your GP may recommend treatment with antidepressants called selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), alongside talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy.  But if you have milder symptoms, we have some tips you can try to protect yourself against the winter slump: See the light Sunlight is known to activate a specific hormone called serotonin. This hormone is responsible for regulating and elevating your mood, helps with sleep and wakefulness and is linked to feeling good and living longer. Try getting outside into the sunlight as early and often as possible throughout the day.  Get help from tech If access to bright sunlight isn't possible, studies have shown light treatment/therapy is another effective way of reducing the symptoms of SAD. Many people with SAD or the winter blues respond well to light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a special light therapy lamp – or light box – at home. You may also find dawn simulators useful,  they use a gradual light to wake you up in the morning, simulating a summers morning. Always remember to check any light therapy devices to make sure that it has been made by a fully certified manufacturer and is designed for treating SAD. Additionally, you could try using aromatherapy and the use of essential oils to help boost your mood. As some studies suggest that it could potentially lessen any symptoms. Get active Physical activity is widely thought to be an effective way to boost your mood, and there’s a solid body of evidence that suggests exercise may help to alleviate depression. Exercising outdoors, especially when it’s sunny, may have an even stronger effect on SAD/winter blues symptoms. You don’t have to turn into a fitness fanatic. Just being more active in your day-to-day life can have a huge benefit on the way you feel, especially during the winter. Eat mood-boosting foods Many experts believe what you eat can make a huge difference to your mood, especially during the winter, particularly foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, which converts into serotonin in the brain. Foods rich in tryptophan include bananas, turkey, chicken, fish, cheese, eggs, milk, nuts, avocados and pulses. Some also believe omega-3 fatty acids may enhance serotonin activity, so eat oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and fresh tuna at least once a week (if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, try adding flaxseeds or chia seeds for an omega-3 boost). Stay warm Some SAD sufferers say their symptoms improve when they keep warm, so make sure your home and workplace are properly heated and wrap up well when you go outdoors.  If you’re worried about the financial cost of turning up the thermostat, get in touch to find out about CA Support's emergency financial assistance.   Keep in contact When feeling down, it’s natural to want to shut ourselves away from the world. It’s important to keep our social muscles active, as positive relationships bring both joy and perspective to our lives. Make sure you arrange regular catch-ups with your family and friends throughout winter.  How we can help The Thrive wellbeing hub provides free emotional supports to members, students and family members. We offer a confidential space for you to talk, whether you need a listening ear, wellbeing advice or professional counselling, we are here for you. You can contact the thrive wellbeing team by email at: thrive@charteredaccountants.ie or by phone: (+353) 86 0243294

Following Fastway Couriers' entry into receivership, Revenue issued a press release last week acknowledging the potential impact this may have on several hundred subcontractors, franchisees, and solo operators across the delivery network, including the potential impact on timely tax compliance. Recognising the financial impact, Revenue has advised it will take a pragmatic approach and work with affected individuals and businesses to maintain good compliance records, including offering flexible payment arrangements where temporary cashflow difficulties arise.  Couriers and businesses experiencing cashflow difficulties due to the closure are encouraged to contact the Collector-General’s office promptly at 01 738 3663 or through MyEnquiries to agree suitable arrangements and ensure continued tax compliance.