CBI Confederation of British Industry : Northern Ireland Monthly Policy Roundup - January 2016

Apprenticeship Levy

The CBI recently hosted a webinar with over 200 members listening and asking questions on the likely impact of the Apprenticeship Levy across the UK. Our Employment and Skills Network will be meeting the Employment Minister, Stephen Farry, on 11 February to discuss the levy and the development of Higher Level Apprenticeships in N Ireland.

Energy - addressing both short and longer term issues

We have submitted a short paper to the Manufacturing Advisory Panel, drawing on our 'Energy Road Map' ahead of a meeting on 28 January. This looks at short term actions required to reduce the burden of high energy costs. Please contact [e-mail] for a copy.

Separately a working group has been developing a Post 2020 vision for NI energy policy paper. This paper is almost completed and examines the long term challenges facing the energy sector and calls for a new energy and decarbonisation strategy for the years 2020-2035 to be agreed by the end of 2016.

CBI responds to Rating Review

We have responded to the Dept of Finance's consultation on rating policy. Key points in our submission include:

• The importance of easing the rating burden on businesses without reducing NI Executive revenue.
• Business rates reliefs and exemptions should be re-examined on the basis of cost-effectiveness and NI Executive economic priorities.
• Revaluations should be undertaken more frequently with correspondingly shorter implementation lags.
• Councils should be given greater powers to vary the non-domestic rate burden in their areas.

To request the full submission, please contact [e-mail]

Employment Bill disappoints
We submitted a short response to the Employment and Learning Committee noting that the Bill was a missed opportunity to ease the regulatory burden on businesses. To read the respopnse, http://s1043207703.t.en25.com/e/er?s=1043207703&lid=3742&elq=recipientid' target='_blank'>click here
Please contact [e-mail]

Infrastructure investment must become a priority

A key priority during the first half of 2016, will be ensuring we secure a commitment in the next Programme for Government to invest more in our infrastructure. We welcomed the Budget commitments announced in December, particularly relating to the A5, A6 and the Belfast Rapid Transport and Belfast Transport Hub projects. Our recent meeting with DRD officials highlighted the challenges around water and sewerage infrastructure, which without increased investment, risks limiting residential and commercial development. This month a CBI delegation met Dept of Finance Permanent Secretary, David Sterling to discuss the upcoming Programme for Government and Infrastructure priorities.

For all queries regarding CBI policy work, please contact: [e-mail]