The Belfast Chamber has warmly welcomed the Department of Finance’s new draft multi-year budget for 2026-2030, marking a significant move towards more strategic financial planning for Northern Ireland. Clare Guinness, CEO of Belfast Chamber, emphasised the importance of this development, stating that after a decade of operating without a long-term financial plan, this consultation is a much-needed step forward.
For too long, Northern Ireland has been forced to manage its finances on a year-to-year basis, a challenge no successful business could endure. This new multi-year budget, while not a quick fix, is a vital first step towards creating an environment where financial decisions can be made with a clear medium to long-term vision. It’s designed to provide greater certainty, allowing public services, investors, and the wider economy to plan, reform, and deliver more effectively.
The Chamber believes this strategic approach is essential for boosting productivity and building long-term economic resilience across the region. With significant financial constraints already in place, the focus on genuine transformation becomes even more critical. Local businesses and residents will benefit from the stability and foresight this new budgeting framework aims to provide.
Belfast Chamber strongly encourages its members and the broader business community, including those here in North Belfast, to actively participate in this consultation. The decisions ahead are challenging, but a transparent and strategic approach to budgeting is fundamental for Northern Ireland's future prosperity.