Business needs an end to policy paralysis
Since January 2017, there has been no devolved government in Northern Ireland. For businesses this has resulted in policy paralysis where key issues – from infrastructure to skills – have seen little, or no, progress. Decisions must be made that cannot wait until ministers return.
The changes we're calling for
Northern Irish businesses want to see the return of an inclusive devolved government. Until that can be achieved, we’re calling for local civil servants to be given the authority to make the decisions that keep Northern Ireland moving.
The return of an inclusive devolved government in Northern Ireland
Progress on economic policy issues
Decisions taken on crucial issues, from significant planning projects to Brexit contingency planning
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“The longer this uncertainty presides over local decision making, the greater the risk to jobs and investment. Northern Ireland cannot be left in decision-making limbo indefinitely.”
Adrian Doran, CBI NI Vice-ChairWhy it’s needed
There has been no strong leadership to actively argue for Northern Ireland’s interests in Brexit negotiations – despite the importance of a seamless border with the Republic of Ireland – putting at risk the economic, social and political progress of the past two decades.
Northern Irish firms are currently paying the apprenticeship levy, without any access to training in return. Northern Ireland’s Energy Strategy for 2020-2035 cannot be finalised – crucial to give the industry the clarity needed to invest. And significant energy and transport infrastructure projects – which would help drive productivity and growth – have stalled.
All options must be considered to remove this handbrake on local economic and social progress.
Conducting business in a vacuum
Delays, risks and a growing skills gap
Policy paralysis means Northern Ireland is lagging behind other regions - failing to make progress, losing talent and putting the future in jeopardy. The effects are significant and already rearing their ugly heads.
The amount of infrastructure investment at risk due to delays to planning approval.
The proportion of CBI members that believe Northern Ireland is experiencing a growing skills shortage.
The number of young people forced to leave the region to attend university elsewhere as there is insufficient funds to educate them in Northern Ireland.
Our progress and impact
The CBI campaigns tirelessly on behalf of our members so that business creates prosperity for all. Learn more about the work we do and the impact we are making on this issue.
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- Apr 2017
Engagement —
CBI sends clear message on the need for the resumption of the executive
- Apr 2018
Engagement —
Northern Ireland's voice damaged in Brexit negotiations
- May 2018
Engagement —
Business calls for increased civil servant power
- Oct 2018
Impact —
Parliament approves new powers for Northern Ireland Civil Servants
- Oct 2018
Engagement —
CBI speaks out on absence of leadership in Northern Ireland
- May 2019
Progress —
Power-sharing talks resume in Northern Ireland
- May 2019
Engagement —
Ibec/CBI Joint Business Council joint statement
- May 2019
Engagement —
Carolyn Fairbairn in Belfast: the lack of NI Executive is costing economy £1bn
- Sep 2019
Engagement —
Carolyn Fairbairn warns of economic crisis in Northern Ireland
- Mar 2020
Engagement —
CBI meets with the NI Finance Minister
Support the change
Join the CBI
Our members are our mandate, and the reason we’re the most influential business organisation in the UK. Join the voice of business, and help us campaign to empower decision making in Northern Ireland.
Have your say
Are you one of the many Northern Irish businesses that want to see the return of an inclusive devolved government? Strengthen the CBI position. Share your story.
Make a difference
This campaign is led by the CBI's Regional Growth team.
Contact Jim Hubbard, Head of Regional Policy, to find out what business urgently needs to empower decision making in Northern Ireland and how you can support it.