Chartered accountants (CAs) in Northern Ireland are calling for a reform of the public sector, a more attractive corporation tax regime and firmer economic leadership, according to the latest Business Confidence Survey from Chartered Accountants Ulster Society.
More than 200 CAs in Northern Ireland took part in the survey.
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The findings depict an economy that has levelled off but is struggling to move beyond weak growth. Respondents cited sustained cost pressures and limited confidence in policy delivery as ongoing challenges.
Just 6% of respondents see the outlook as positive. Most (56%) expect “fair” conditions, while 38% hold a pessimistic view.
Signs of strain also remain widespread, with 58% reporting that financial distress among businesses continues to rise.
Overall, 76% describe current economic conditions as either stagnant (38%) or expanding only slowly (38%), and only 7% report strong or moderate growth in activity.
Around 95% of the respondents say the rising cost of doing business is a major challenge, alongside pressures from taxation, energy prices and the broader public finance position.
More than half of them (51%) believe Northern Ireland’s existing funding model is no longer viable and requires substantial change.
The survey also found that more than 90% agree that improving efficiency and refocusing existing expenditure should come before any moves to increase taxes or reduce services.
Respondents also express deep unease about how decisions are made and implemented.
They highlight inefficiency, slow decision-making and a lack of strategic direction as significant impediments to growth.
A large majority (85%) think a more competitive Corporation Tax rate would enhance Northern Ireland’s ability to attract and retain mobile investment.
The survey further points to what many see as unrealised benefits from Northern Ireland’s post-Brexit dual market access.
On technology, respondents signalled cautious optimism about AI.
Almost half (49%) expect AI to affect their role without radically altering it, while 36% foresee significant or positive transformation.
The Ulster Society has urged policymakers to adopt a long-term economic strategy with a strong emphasis on implementation as well as policy design.
Chartered Accountants Ulster Society chairman Mark Lawther said: “Northern Ireland’s economy has stabilised, but momentum remains modest.
“Businesses continue to face elevated costs and financial pressures, and greater confidence will depend on clearer, faster policy delivery.
“There is a clear message from our members that reform must come before additional revenue-raising. Improving how public money is spent, alongside stronger governance and decision-making, is essential to restoring confidence.”
