James Browne

Increasing the maximum Housing Adaptation Grant in Budget 2026.

To raise awareness of report findings and garner support for the recommendations.

To point out that while IFA acknowledges the responsibility carried by TII and its staff IFA is uncomfortable with the apparent inconsistencies in some of the answers around when TII decides to appeal on planning and when it decides not to appeal.::To show concern that there…

To stress the importance of Ireland retaining its nitrates derogation at current levels as part of the ongoing negotiations on the sixth Nitrates Action Programme (NAP), and that the conditionality attached to the retention of the derogation must be practical at farm level, not…

To propose that all farmers and spouses/partners working on the farm, are to be included in the PRSI system to ensure entitlement to the contributory old age pension and reduce the risk of poverty in old age.::To propose the retention of both the Total Contributions Approach…

To propose that the current cap on grant aid based on on-farm energy usage should be removed. Many farms with low electricity consumption have large shed space ideal for solar installations. Allowing these farmers to install systems beyond their own usage and export surplus…

Influence public policy to be more effective in preventing and ending homelessness.::To discuss the Government's new Housing Plan and the blockers Focus Ireland faces to delivering its own organisational strategy because of issues with current homeless and housing policy.

To highlight the urgency of a review of the HAP scheme to the Minister for Housing, the impact that we are seeing of the dysfunction of the scheme on those availing of the scheme and the changes to the scheme that we believe can improve the functioning and accessibility of the…

To advocate for measures to ensure the achievement of housing targets in the Cork region, including innovative housing solutions such as above the shop living and targeted financial supports for measures to stimulate the housing market.

To outline and garner support for changes to taxation policy to encourage economic competitiveness, including simplification of current policies, supports for R&D and innovation, as well as entrepreneurship.

To advocate for business priorities in the area of education and training, including supports for apprenticeships and upskilling opportunities, as well as funding for third level institutions.

To call for progress on key transport projects in the Cork region and further afield in the context of Budget 2026, including regional connectivity via Cork Airport and the Port of Cork, strategic rail links and the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme, as well as progress on…

To advance progress on offshore renewable energy in the Cork region in Budget 2026, including port infrastructure investment and support for industry to ensure Ireland meets its ambitious climate targets.

To highlight the importance of support for regional tourism and tourism bodies in Budget 2026, including the enhancement of public realm spaces and connectivity to support regional economies in attracting tourists.

Continuation/expansion of services for those experiencing homelessness, addiction and mental ill health put in place during pandemic as well as an extension of gender based services and increases in budget funding.