Directors Discuss Competitiveness at IoD Ireland EU Presidency Event

Directors and business leaders gathered at the Westbury Hotel, Dublin, for IoD Ireland's 'Driving Competitiveness Through Ireland's EU Presidency' event on Thursday, 3rd September. The event was held in partnership with KPMG. The event explored what the EU's competitiveness agenda means in practice for Irish businesses, boards and business leaders.

The panel discussion featured Barry Andrews CDir MEP, Member of the European Parliament; Dr Orlaigh Quinn, Interim Director General, Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA); and Jim Power, Economist. The session was moderated by Dr Caroline Spillane CDir, Chief Executive Officer of IoD Ireland. The event also included a welcome address from Conor Holland, Partner, Head of ESG Reporting & Assurance, KPMG Ireland, and Darren Clarke, Business Development Manager, IoD Ireland. 

Competitiveness, Innovation and Economic Security

Against the backdrop of Ireland's EU Presidency, the discussion focused on Europe's competitiveness agenda, regulatory simplification, innovation, AI, economic security and Ireland's role in shaping future European priorities. Panellists examined the opportunities and challenges facing both Irish and European businesses, and considered how directors can respond to an increasingly complex geopolitical, technological and economic environment.

The discussion also explored the importance of strengthening productivity, supporting innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and ensuring that businesses remain competitive while navigating evolving regulatory requirements. See below some key takeways from the panel discussion.

Key Takeaways for Directors from the IoD Presidency Event

• Competitiveness remains a defining agenda item for Europe and is a key priority of Ireland's EU Presidency. During the discussion, the Draghi report on EU competitiveness was cited, and the ongoing work at EU level around this agenda. The other EU Presidency priority areas of security and values were also noted as integral to driving a more competitive business environment. 
• Simplification of complex EU regulation was noted as a key component in driving this competitiveness environment. However, it was noted that the simplification of rules needs to be balanced with maintaining strong accountability and governance measures. The simplification of legislation, such as the suite of the Omnibus EU legislation was noted during the discussion, including for ESG and digital. 
• Innovation, AI adoption and technological leadership were noted as increasingly important drivers of long-term economic growth and competitiveness. Ireland's National Digital Strategy and the EUs Horizon Europe Research and innovation funding programme were cited as key facilitators in supporting innovation.  
• Cyber resilience remains a critical issue for organisations, in particular SMEs, as geopolitical and security risks continue to evolve. Boards and directors have obligations under EU Cyber Security legislation, such as NIS2, but also to ensure that cyber risk is managed within their organisation with sufficient procedures and policies. 
• Presidency Success will be measured not only by legislative outcomes, but by Ireland's ability to influence strategic priorities across Europe. It was noted that a defining factor that will determine if the Irish Presidency of the EU was a success will be the development of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) negiotiations, the EU's long-term spending plan.

Audience Engagement and Director Networking

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where attendees had the opportunity to explore key themes in greater depth and exchange perspectives with industry peers. IoD Ireland members were reminded of the ongoing supports and resources available to them as members, including the AI Governance Toolkit, the suite of workshops, and the ongoing series of thought leadership content and director-focused insights.

The session closed with an invitation for attendees to continue the conversation through networking, providing an opportunity to share perspectives, deepen connections, and reflect on the key insights from the discussion.

IoD Ireland extends its thanks to KPMG for their partnership in delivering this event. For more information on upcoming events visit the IoD Ireland website.