The response highlights both support and concerns among the Institutes members, who represent diverse sectors across Northern Ireland. While many agreed with the PfG’s goals, members were critical of the plan’s lack of specific targets and deadlines, suggesting that each of the nine strategic priorities would benefit from more measurable objectives and a definitive timeline to enhance accountability and impact.
Key Observations
Funding
The Institute supports the pursuit of additional funding from the UK government to support the PfG’s objectives, but about half of our members also endorse exploring local revenue-raising initiatives.
Suggested measures include adjusting non-domestic rating schemes, introducing prescription charges, and implementing domestic water charges. Additionally, two-thirds of Institute members advocate for Northern Ireland to set its own corporation tax rate, with a preference for aligning it with the Republic of Ireland’s rate. This, they argue, could make Northern Ireland more attractive for foreign investment and potentially increase tax revenue.
Public Sector Reform
Nearly two-thirds of respondents believe that the draft PfG lacks a commitment to meaningful reorganisation within key government departments, especially the Department of Health.
Despite a proposed £235 million transformation fund for public service improvements, over 75% feel this amount is insufficient without clearer targets for departmental efficiencies, particularly regarding health services.
The Institute also noted that the £76 million designated to reduce health waiting lists is unlikely to deliver substantial improvements, stressing the need for detailed plans and prioritisation within healthcare.
Decarbonisation
Members expressed disappointment with the limited specifics on decarbonisation targets in the draft PfG. While pledges for additional funding to support energy efficiency are welcome, Institute members believe the plan fails to address the urgency needed to meet the statutory requirement of a 48% reduction in net emissions by 2030. To achieve these targets, members urge a more assertive and immediate focus on decarbonisation.
Affordable Childcare
The Institute’s engagement over the past year indicates that affordable childcare remains a pressing issue for working parents in Northern Ireland. Although the draft PfG mentions a long-term approach to childcare, it lacks actionable plans.
Seventy-five percent of surveyed members identified childcare costs as a significant obstacle, with many paying between £1,000 and £2,000 monthly per child. The Institute recommends establishing a comprehensive, government-led childcare policy to recognise childcare as an essential infrastructure component. Additionally, it suggests removing caps on tax-free childcare support to reduce the financial burden on families.
Conclusion
In its submission, Chartered Accountants Ireland emphasises that while it supports the broad priorities of the draft PfG, a successful implementation requires more detailed planning, defined objectives, and accountability measures.
The member feedback underscores the need for a targeted approach across funding, public sector reform, environmental sustainability, and childcare to meet Northern Ireland’s long-term socio-economic goals. The Institute concludes by offering continued support and collaboration with the Executive to refine and strengthen the PfG’s framework.
A copy of the full response is available on the Ulster Society website at https://bit.ly/pfgresponse