With a Brexit vote looming, Assembly elections, a new Programme for Government and an impending Department for the Economy, renowned economist Professor Neil Gibson has warned that both businesses and individuals will have a vital role to play in what he termed a new ‘Era of responsibility’ for Northern Ireland. 

Professor Neil Gibson, Director of Ulster University Economic Policy Centre, stated the year ahead is critical and will be pivotal for the Northern Ireland economy. Speaking at ACCA’s (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Ulster Member’s Network event at Ulster University, Belfast, he commented “No longer will it simply fall on government’s shoulders to provide the jobs and future growth we crave. As our economy rebalances toward the private sector both businesses and individuals must take responsibility to ensure we can secure a brighter future for ourselves and our children.

“Solutions to our problems must come from within: at board level in businesses but also amongst individuals, everyone has a role to play. At an individual level that requires people to train and upskill to ensure they are able to compete in the jobs market; self-starters will be rewarded and an entrepreneurial spirit has to be fostered and encouraged.”

Clodagh Hegarty, Chairman of ACCA Ulster Members’ Network and Lecturer in Accounting at Ulster University, Magee said “Accountants are continuing to play an important role and are much more than just financial gatekeepers. In today’s digital age, compliancy, account management and financial reporting have been digitalised and the accountant's role in business has shifted. Businesses want more than just an update on their profit and loss, they want advice on how to grow their business, increase sales and expand into new markets.

“If we are to fulfil business expectations then we need to equip young professionals with essential training and the skills required to help reshape the economy of Northern Ireland.

“There are numerous opportunities that exist here in Northern Ireland; in particular we know first-hand the adaptability and flexibility that the accountancy profession has to offer. With the skills shortage in Northern Ireland still a major concern for many businesses, we want to ensure we utilise our home grown talent and provide opportunities for young professionals to flourish.”

Professor Gibson concluded “In this new era of responsibility the next Programme for Government will require politicians to look forward and not in the rear view mirror focusing on what we can do working with the private sector and within our means to find local solutions to global challenges to enable Northern Ireland to remain competitive in the global economy.”

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