Confident,but more help need
June 28th 2011

Recent independent research* by Behaviour & Attitudes on behalf of the Institute of Directors in Ireland, shows that those at the helm of Irish business have confidence in the Fine Gael/Labour coalition, yet believe a range of measures are needed to support business and rebuild the economy.

Of those directors surveyed, 88% believe the Government will create political stability, 67% are confident in its ability to rebuild the economy and 76% believe it can restore international confidence in Ireland, with 80% of directors of multinationals showing high levels of confidence in this regard.

The survey showed 44% of directors believe the Government will be good for small business, with 47% of directors in SMEs positive about the impact the Government will make.

When questioned on the biggest challenges facing business in Ireland, 48% cited access to credit/funding and a dysfunctional banking system as the main challenge, 23%, cited consumer confidence as an issue and 13% said Ireland's reputation internationally is a challenge to the business environment here.

In conjunction with this research, the IoD engaged in a consultation process with its members on steps the Government should take to rebuild the economy by supporting business and through job creation.

*Research was carried out online with a sample of 221 IoD members between 23rd March and 1st April 2011.