Representation for small and mediums sized businesses on the Labour Employer Economic Forum and measures to address the housing crisis are among the key asks contained in the election manifesto of business organisation ISME.
The association, which represents small and medium sized firms, is also seeking the establishment of a robust indigenous industrial policy to ensure the country does not become overly reliant on corporation tax coming from multinationals.
The manifesto also calls for a significant increase in infrastructure and housing investment.
It also argues for a revisitation of the VAT rates to help reduce consumer costs which contribute to making Ireland the second most expensive state in the eurozone, it claims.
"With the General Election on the horizon, it is critical that political parties commit to addressing the key challenges facing employers, particularly those in the SME sector," said Neil McDonnell, ISME chief executive.
"Representation at the Labour Employer Economic Forum, housing affordability, and broader economic reforms must be central to political manifestos."
"Over the coming weeks, we will be proactively engaging with political parties and encouraging them to include measures supporting SMEs in their manifestos for the election."
The document also calls for more efficient public spending and equitable taxation without pushing more workers into higher tax brackets.
It says there needs to be reform of the legal system which is slowing infrastructure development, housing, and growth in key sectors.
On social insurance it says the existing fund needs reform and ISME recommends a new PRSI rate structure to reduce costs for lower-earning workers while addressing future liabilities.
While in relation to upskilling workers and business owners it claims the National Training Fund surplus should be used to enhance workforce skills as originally intended.
