Group urges Government to prioritise women in business in Budget
Network Ireland wants further assistance from Government
BUSINESSES led by women should be given greater priority in the upcoming Budget.
That’s according to Network Ireland, which supports women in business and the arts and is led by Limerick's Karen Ronan.
The group, which represents more than 1,400 members through 17 branches nationwide including here in Limerick, has called on Government to recognise women-led enterprise as a key driver of productivity, resilience and sustainable economic growth.
It’s the first time Network Ireland has provided a submission to Government, and it wants to see seven key areas tackled, including cutting the cost of doing business, improving access to finance for women entrepreneurs, expanding childcare supports, investing in skills and artificial intelligence, strengthening innovation, and addressing housing and infrastructure challenges.
Ms Ronan, who also is chief executive of Galway Chamber said women-led businesses were making a significant contribution to the Irish economy but continued to face barriers that limited their ability to grow.
“Investing in women in business is not simply an equality issue; it is an economic one. The right supports will strengthen businesses, increase workforce participation and enhance Ireland’s competitiveness,” she said. “Our recommendations are practical and achievable and focused on helping businesses thrive. By investing in female entrepreneurship, childcare, innovation and workforce participation, Government can deliver lasting benefits for businesses, communities and the wider economy.”
Founded in 1983, Network Ireland supports entrepreneurs, SME owners, professionals and business leaders through 17 regional branches and a virtual branch.
Ms Ronan is the national president of Network Ireland for the year.
Prior to becoming chief executive of Galway Chamber, she led the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, which is tasked with bringing business tourism into Limerick.
The president of Network Ireland’s branch in Limerick is Barbara MacCarthy, who works as a senior manager with Johnson & Johnson Vision Care based in Plassey.
She is supported by a committee of 16 other women in the business and artistic community.