Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce says there should be a renewed focus on reinvigorating the economy.
Chamber President, John Healy, said businesses need to see "immediate, substantial action to reinvigorate our stagnant economy, build new infrastructure, boost skills and lower the cost of doing business in 2020."
Speaking on behalf of the business support organisation, which represents over 1,200 businesses across Northern Ireland, employing over 100,000 people, Mr Healy, said, "Following the General Election result, the Queen's Speech and the reintroduction of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement Bill last year, the start of 2020 also promises to be eventful – albeit in different ways. Many will now hope that with the election over and a decisive result, there will at least be more certainty for businesses in 2020.
"As they plan for the year ahead, our members need confidence, starting with a shift in tone from our leaders, away from the politics that hindered 2019. The Brexit uncertainty, when added to the damage caused by the lack of an Executive at Stormont, means the local economy is also likely to deteriorate in the months ahead.
He said Government must therefore move fast to boost the confidence of businesses, consumers and investors. Businesses need to see immediate, substantial action to reinvigorate our stagnant economy, build new infrastructure, boost skills and lower the cost of doing business in 2020.
On Brexit, Mr Healy said getting the detail of it right is far more important than simply getting it done. Vital details still need to be negotiated with the EU around future trade arrangements and unless a comprehensive UK-EU trade agreement is in place by the end of next year, businesses could once again face a cliff-edge – and seismic changes to trading conditions equivalent to a no-deal exit, he said.
"The incoming government must still act to avoid a messy and disorderly exit from the European Union, and to give businesses the clear, detailed information that they require to navigate the coming changes."
