Image: CEO (Allan Shine) and President (Vivian Cummins) of North Kildare Chamber
The Voice of Irish Business is heard in European Parliament
North Kildare Chamber and a delegation from Chambers from throughout Ireland and representatives of the Irish business community participated in the European Parliament of Enterprises in Brussels yesterday (13/10/16).
The European Parliament of Enterprises allows business people from all over Europe to become Members of the European Parliament of Enterprises (MEPEs) for one day and gain unique insights into how one of the most powerful bodies in Europe goes about their decision making process. The delegation of representatives from the Irish business community participated in the debates and votes held throughout the day on trade, the single market, sustainability and skills.
In his opening address, Richard Weber, Chairman of Eurochambres said, “The time has come for businesses to reiterate their capacity and willingness to provide solutions to the challenges of today: globalisation, unemployment, unfair competition, migration and climate change.”
Speaking following the event, Allan Shine, Chief Executive, North Kildare Chamber said “The European Parliament of Enterprises gives SMEs a unique opportunity to experience firsthand how important decisions are made at the highest level and raise any concerns they may have. It is clear from the results of the votes that trade matters for ordinary business across the EU, with 94% of MEPEs voting in support of an effective EU trade policy and 95% feel SMEs should have a stronger say in such trade policy. These results show just how important trade is to business and agreements such as TTIP and CETA are vital for Europe to remain competitive globally. It is particularly worrying that two thirds of the entrepreneurs in attendance from across Europe expressed concern that Brexit would harm their business. It is important in this period of uncertainty that the EU listen to the voice of business and work to create a more business friendly policy environment.
Shine concluded by saying, “ The 2 day visit to Brussels gave myself and the President of the Chamber invaluable insight into how Kildare businesses can engage and access crucial funds that can assist business. Meeting with our MEP’s and EASME (European Assembly of Small and Medium sized Enterprises) were extremely beneficial.
Vivian Cummins, President of North Kildare Chamber