Budget Briefing 2026
Kinsale Lions Club Budget Breakfast with Chartered Accountants Ireland Cork Society.
A Morning of Insight, Leadership and Strong Community Spirit
Kinsale, Co. Cork — 9 October 2025
The annual Budget Breakfast hosted by Kinsale & District Lions Club drew a capacity crowd to the Kinsale Hotel & Spa this morning, with more than 300 guests representing business, professional services, emergency services, education, sport, and community organisations. This much-anticipated event was headlined by Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, and leading economist Jim Power. Proceedings were expertly chaired by Gerry O’Dwyer.
“This is Community in Action” — Opening Address
Welcoming guests, Club President Cormac Fitzgerald set the tone for the morning with a powerful opening address:
“It is wonderful to see such a full house once again for this very special event. Each year, it continues to grow — a real testament to the interest, commitment, and generosity of those who attend. Today really shows what can be achieved when all sectors of society come together with a common purpose.” Fitzgerald acknowledged attendees from the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service, the Fire Service, Cork Chamber of Commerce, Southern Law Association, and Chartered Accountants Ireland, as well as representatives from the SME sector, led by Neil McDonnell of ISME.
He highlighted the critical role of SMEs as “the backbone of the Irish economy” and thanked local employers, including Eli Lilly and Company, for their contribution to the Kinsale community. Special welcomes were extended to Stephen Keohane, Chairman of Chartered Accountants Ireland Cork Society; Pamela McCreedy, President of Chartered Accountants Ireland; and Áine Collins on her international appointment to the board of IFAC.
A warm acknowledgment was also made to Ronan Fahy and his team at Kinsale Hotel & Spa: “Their warm hospitality and professional support have once again provided the perfect setting as our main sponsors of the event today. They are providing the hospitality for free to support charity and make a difference.”
Inspiring Young Voices
A standout feature of the event was the participation of students from Kinsale Community School’s Business and Economics classes, who engaged in lively discussion with Jim Power. “It was fantastic to see such an engaged and thoughtful group of young people,” Power said. “They are the next generation of business and community leaders.” This interaction reflected the core ethos of the Kinsale Lions Club — bringing generations together to strengthen civic and community life.
Budget 2026 and Economic Insight
Minister Chambers outlined the priorities of Budget 2026, emphasising job creation, infrastructure investment, and economic resilience in an uncertain global environment. “This Budget is about securing jobs, investing in infrastructure, and safeguarding our future. Events like this show the power of civic leadership and collaboration,” the Minister said. Economist Jim Power provided a dynamic analysis of the Budget, the economic outlook for 2026, and the challenges facing Irish SMEs. His trademark clarity and wit resonated strongly with the audience.
Giving Back to the Community
The proceeds from the event will support CUH Charity’s paediatric cancer ward and a range of local community initiatives. Fitzgerald reminded guests of the deeper purpose of the breakfast: “While we are gathered to discuss economics, taxation, and policy — the real purpose is much deeper. This morning is about raising funds for causes that truly matter.” The event also celebrated local sporting talent, including cycling champion Cormac O’Callaghan, and welcomed representatives from Cork University Hospital, including Prof Conor Deasy Prof Andy Philips , Jennifer Meagher and Prof Colin Hawkes, who spoke about the real-world impact of community support on families facing childhood illness at Cork University Hospital.
A Celebration of Community Spirit
The morning was described by many as a celebration of community in its truest form — bringing together business leaders, emergency services, educators, volunteers, and students in shared purpose. “This is community in action,” Fitzgerald said. “It is what makes Kinsale so special, and why our club continues to thrive after more than 33 years.” A special mention was made of the club’s recent Club Excellence Award from Lions Clubs Ireland & International — a recognition of outstanding service, leadership, and impact.
About Kinsale & District Lions Club
Founded in 1991, Kinsale & District Lions Club is part of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest volunteer service organisation. With 52 active members, the club supports local families, healthcare initiatives and community development.