Ibec chief executive, Danny McCoy has thanked the outgoing Taoiseach for what he described as his "enormous contribution to public service".
Earlier today, Leo Varadkar announced that he is stepping down as Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader.
Mr McCoy particularly thanked Mr Varadkar for his engagement on issues of importance to the business community, the shared mutual interest in the economic prosperity of our country and the role business plays in the social fabric of our society.
"Throughout his time as Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister for Social Protection, Minister for Health, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and as Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, he consistently demonstrated a willingness to work with Ibec and understand the needs of business, recognising its critical role in the prosperity of the country and its potential to transform our country as a whole," Mr McCoy said.
"On an individual level, he provided much-needed direction, leadership, and reassurance for businesses struggling to grapple with the early stages of the pandemic."
Chambers Ireland also thanked Mr Varadkar for what it described as his "outstanding service".
"With the passing of time it can be easy to overlook the crises that threatened our economy and society and the enormous changes that have taken place in Ireland since Leo Varadkar first became Taoiseach in 2017," said chief executive, Ian Talbot.
"During his tenure as Taoiseach some of his most significant achievements included successfully overseeing Ireland's response to Covid and ensuring effective supports to businesses and employees were put in place to minimise the social and economic impact."
"He also played a vital role in the EU’s negotiations with the UK on Brexit and helped manage its impact on the Irish economy."
Mr Talbot added that Mr Varadkar’s contribution to social and diversity issues have also contributed significantly to Ireland’s attractiveness for investment.
"Overall, his economic management of the country has helped ensure Ireland’s success as one of the most productive and competitive economies in the world," he concluded.
Dublin Chamber said Mr Vardakar had profoundly impacted the political, economic and social landscape during his successful tenure as leader.
"We've been fortunate to engage with him in each of his roles as a Minster and as Taoiseach," said CEO, Mary Rose Burke.
"Investment, employment and living standards are now at the highest levels in the history of the state."
"We want to thank him for his long-standing support for and engagement with Dublin Chamber in our work in advocating for businesses in the region and we wish him well for the future."
