Chambers Ireland has described Ireland's infrastructure as "a significant constraint" on the country's competitiveness after issuing a call to action for the delivery of key State projects.
In a submission to the government, the business network said that a review of the National Development Plan should be undertaken regarding failures in delivery and accountability.
“Ireland’s GDP growth is estimated at 3.7% for 2025, however the State currently ranks at just 38th in basic infrastructure availability," said Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland.
"This contrast between strong economic performance and poor infrastructure represents not just a statistical anomaly, but a significant constraint on our competitiveness.
"It is essential that we reverse this trend and plan robustly for the future as our population expands.”
“Core infrastructure – leading with transport, water, and energy – have been the defining shortcomings of the past decade.
"These deficiencies have had a profound knock-on impact on housing and on the quality of life for businesses and communities across the country," Talbot continued.
He further warned that without immediate and decisive action, the NDP risks devolving into "a checklist of missed opportunities."
"Our message is clear: it is essential for all levels of government to recognise that the failure to deliver key infrastructure impedes progress in every other critical growth area," Talbot stated.
"Without urgency and tangible progress, we risk jeopardising the very foundations of our future development."
The submission makes demands for improvements in transport & connectivity, utilities & environment, housing, and economic development.
Chambers Ireland said there is strong potential to develop a network of interconnected cities on the island of Ireland, and that airports and rail links must be integrated into national connectivity strategies.
The document also urges investment in critical road infrastructure, cross-border cooperation, and flood defence.
With regards to utilities & environment, the organisation said the electricity grid required upgrading and reinforcement, that water and wastewater infrastructure is wholly inadequate, and the offshore wind potential remains underutilised.
Housing delivery is far below its targets, with an over-reliance on the private sector and a critical shortage of key infrastructure to support it, Chambers Ireland added, calling for local authorities to be adequately funded and vacant housing to be activated to fill the shortfall.
Ultimately, the group blamed "excessive bureaucracy and red tape" for delays in the delivery of critical infrastructure.
Regarding accountability, Chambers Ireland said alignment of stakeholders should be prioritised and that greater coordination, transparency and urgency from all departments is required while retaining the NDP's original capital focus.
Photo: Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland. (Pic: Fran Veale)
