Members’ Newsletter
November 2025
Message from the CEO
Dear member,
Budget 2026 was, unfortunately, a damp squib. It does contain a commitment to reintroduce the 9% VAT rate from July next, but unfortunately many hospitality businesses may be in trouble on the cost front by.
The national minimum wage will increase from €13.50 to €14.15 per hour from 1st January. The sub-minimum rates of pay will remain in place. Auto-Enrolment also commences on 1st January, and you need to talk to your payroll provider now about what you need to do. This will impact most SME payroll budgets for 2026; if your business or service has substantial numbers of people work at or near the minimum wage, you should be prudent and budget for a 6.3% labour cost increase (on a steadystate basis).
We have written to the Department of Finance with some measures they could introduce at low or no cost to business, I’ll let you know next month how we get on. Following the broadcast by RTE Primetime on misuse of smartphone location data, the Data Protection Commission has contacted us and asked us to advise members that “the systematic monitoring of precise location data relating to individuals is a grave intrusion into their privacy. Failure of data controllers to meet their obligations in relation to the processing of location data, and in particular precise location data, will be tackled to the fullest extent of the law by the DPC.” Please review your data and privacy policies to ensure your business is complaint. The DPC is providing updates HERE
Those of you planning Christmas parties for your staff should check out our HR guidance on parties, to make sure you don’t end up with an unforeseen issue. (Or you could just bring your staff to the ISME annual lunch!)
Remember to use the Revenue Small Benefit Exemption scheme, for your staff this year, it is always appreciated by them and it’s tax efficient. You can order your Me2You gift cards from ISME. Remember- you can now gift up to €1,500 annually, which is the equivalent of €3,480.68 in total remuneration cost to you the employer.
Lastly, it’s that time of year again, and the ISME annual lunch will take place in Killiney Castle on 28th November, details and tickets are available HERE. We look forward to seeing you!
ISME events
ISME Annual Business Lunch 2025 – A Celebration of
Connection, Conversation & Inspiration
We are delighted to invite members and guests to the ISME Annual Lunch 2025, taking place on Friday, 28th November at the elegant Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Dublin. This much-anticipated event is one of the highlights of ISME’s calendar bringing together Ireland’s small and medium business community for an afternoon of networking, reflection, and celebration.
The Annual Lunch offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with fellow entrepreneurs, business leaders, and SME champions in an atmosphere of warmth, conversation, and inspiration. Guests will enjoy a four-course meal, followed by a surprise guest providing lively après-lunch entertainment to round off the day in style.
This year’s event will feature a keynote address from Michelle Carney, a purpose-driven and values-led leader whose distinguished career spans the charity, NGO, commercial, and professional sport sectors. Michelle has led transformative change at organisations including Special Olympics Great Britain, Comic Relief, and the Commonwealth Games, building highperforming teams and driving innovation to deliver lasting social impact.
As Founder of Purpose Driven Impact Consulting, Michelle now advises clients globally on strategy, governance, and leadership, while continuing to champion inclusion, neurodiversity, and sustainable business transformation. Her talk promises to offer fresh perspectives and inspiring lessons for Ireland’s SME community.
Whether you’re attending to build connections, gain insights, or simply celebrate the resilience and spirit of Irish enterprise, the ISME Annual Lunch is the perfect occasion to do so.
We look forward to welcoming you for an afternoon of great company, inspiring ideas, and well-deserved celebration.
Book your place now:
Click here to book a single ticket
Click here to book a table of 10
ISME news
ISME HR Hub – your HR support
To support Members to deal with the everchanging world of HR and employment law, we have created a portal to give you access to guides, templates, contracts, policies and more to support you in managing HR in your business. We have curated the information based on the HR Life Cycle: Attraction, Recruitment, Onboarding, Policies & Training, Performance Management and Exit
You can also find information from government agencies and other third parties in our General Information & Resources page, links to the top downloads and view our selection of blogs including Statutory Sick Pay FAQs and EU Directive on Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions.
To find out how it works and looks, click on the video about the portal here. To use the ISME HR Hub log into the Members Area, click on the top left button.
Want to get your SME started on its Energy Efficiency journey?
The SEAI is running a free online workshop 'Introduction to Energy Management Training' on Thursday November 13th from 2-4pm. This is a free 2 hour online workshop delivered by an energy expert which supports SMEs in creating an Energy Action Plan.
• Further details on the training, as well as relevant workbooks and guides are available on our website here: Energy Efficiency Training for SMEs | Business | SEAI.
• Interested Irish SMEs can register for the training through our Ticket Tailor site here: Buy tickets – Introduction to Energy Management Training
• For any Irish SME unable to attend, this training course is run monthly, and future workshops can be booked via the link above.
Please note this training is open to Irish SMEs only, and is not open to the public sector, the energy industry or energy professionals/consultants at this time.
SEAI's Energy Academy is also available which provides free, on-demand training on energy management. SEAI Energy Academy | SEAI
ISME news
Streamlined Funding Access for Irish SMEs with ISME Finance Finder
The ISME Finance Finder, developed in partnership with Swoop Funding, is an online platform designed to streamline access to finance for Irish SMEs. It offers a centralized solution for businesses seeking funding options to start, expand, improve cash flow, refinance debt, acquire assets, or invest in new markets. Key features include:
• Comprehensive Funding Options: Access to loans, equity, grants, and asset finance tailored to various business needs.
• Expert Guidance: Support from a team of funding specialists to assist with queries and application processes.
• Application Tools: Provision of templates and resources to facilitate funding applications.
• Dedicated Support: Availability of a hotline and email support five days a week for funding-related inquiries.
• Regular Updates: Finance updates and alerts to keep businesses informed of new opportunities
Additionally, businesses can avail of a complimentary 30-minute oneon-one consultation with Swoop's funding experts, offering confidential and obligation-free advice.
For more information or to begin your funding journey, visit the ISME Finance Finder.
“Steady but Unambitious” – ISME reacts to Budget 2026
ISME broadly welcomes Budget 2025 as a stable and responsible package that broadly maintains fiscal discipline in uncertain times. Employment remains at a record high level, reflecting the resilience of Irish enterprises and workers. However, considerable uncertainty remains, with persistent cost pressures, skills shortages, and housing challenges continuing to impact businesses, families, and communities across Ireland.
While inflation is projected to ease to around 2% in 2026, the cost of doing business remains unsustainably high. SMEs continue to face rising costs in energy, insurance, wages, and compliance, with little in this Budget to deliver the structural reform needed to support competitiveness or protect local employment.
ISME news
Health & Safety Authority Update
❑ Workplace Occupational Safety and Health Training (HSA Resources): Employees require Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training at different points in time. Providing comprehensive occupational health and safety training for staff is essential to fostering a safe and healthy workplace environment. The provision of training helps reduce the risk of work-related injuries and ill health. This page provides links to information including the employee OSH learner journey, workplace OSH training requirements and approach, tips for procuring training, training providers, hsalearning.ie and more.
❑ Code of Practice: Safe Use of Industrial Trucks: This Code of Practice provides practical guidance on compliance with legislation related to the use of rider operated industrial trucks in all workplaces.
❑ Driving for Work: Risk Management Guidance for Employers: This guidance document has been jointly developed by An Garda Síochána, the Health and Safety Authority and the Road Safety Authority to help employers understand and manage the main risks that working drivers face and create when driving for work.
❑ Annual Review of Workplace Injuries, Illnesses and Fatalities 2022–2023 report presents the Annual Review of Workplace Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities for 2022- 2023. In preparing this report, we recognise the importance of providing reliable and up-to-date statistical information as an evidence base for decision-making.
❑ A Short Guide to Health Surveillance in the Workplace aims to assist employers and health professionals working on their behalf in understanding their legal requirements regarding health surveillance in the workplace. It also highlights the key elements to consider when implementing a health surveillance programme.
❑ Employing Apprentices: Safety On the Job information sheet is written for people who employ apprentices. It provides a summary overview of how employers should fulfil their duties as an employer and protect apprentices, who may be more at risk of injury and ill health.
❑ Safety On the Job for Apprentices- This information sheet is written for Apprentices. It provides some essential tips to help Apprentices stay safe and healthy as they start their career.
Market Updates
What’s happening in foreign exchange markets?
Key events that influenced foreign exchange markets in October
• The US government shutdown has seen some US government services temporarily suspended, with around 1.4 million federal employees on unpaid leave or working without pay. Many US data releases are delayed as a result.
• The US Dow Jones Industrial Average sets a new record close
• US Federal Reserve Chair Powell said in a speech that the Fed is taking a meeting-by-meeting approach to interest rate cuts, noting that elevated inflation is partly due to the impact of tariffs – he also commented that hiring and layoffs remained low through September adding that the economy may be on a 'somewhat firmer trajectory than expected'
• The euro area annual inflation rate was 2.2% in September, up from 2.0% in August. A year earlier, the rate was 1.7%
• Retail sales in the eurozone were lower than expected: up 1.0% year-on-year compared to the expected 1.3%
What data and factors could impact the major currencies in November?
• Thursday November 6th – UK interest rate decision
• Friday November 7th – US Non-Farm Payrolls (employment data)
• Tuesday November 11th – UK unemployment rate
• Wednesday November 19th - European core Inflation year on year
• Wednesday November 19th – FOMC (US Fed) minutes of policy setting meeting released
As an ISME member, you have exclusive access to Fexco’s dedicated account manager John Barry, who will help you with all your foreign exchange requirements.
• Reduce your cross-border payments costs
• Protect your business from currency volatility
Discover the benefits to your business without an obligation to trade!
HR Update
Managing Christmas Parties: How to Avoid an Employee Relations Hangover
The annual Christmas party is a well-loved tradition in many Irish workplaces. It offers an opportunity to celebrate achievements, boost morale, and thank employees for their contributions over the year. However, if not managed carefully, workplace social events can give rise to employee relations issues such as complaints, grievances, or even legal claims. Employers must strike a balance between festive fun and professional responsibility.
1. Clarify Expectations Before the Event
Employers should issue a short communication before the event reminding staff that, although it’s a social occasion, the Christmas party is an extension of the workplace. This means that policies relating to dignity at work, anti-harassment, equality, and disciplinary procedures still apply. It’s important to set expectations around behaviour, consumption of alcohol, and respectful interaction. This can help avoid inappropriate conduct that may lead to complaints or disciplinary action.
2. Apply Alcohol Policies Sensibly
While alcohol is often part of the celebration, it’s also a common trigger for problems. Employers should ensure there are nonalcoholic options and encourage moderation. If providing a free bar, consider limiting the number of drinks per person to reduce the risk of overconsumption. Managers should be especially mindful of their role in setting the tone and not encouraging excessive drinking.
3. Be Inclusive and Respect Diversity
Not all employees may celebrate Christmas, and some may have cultural or religious reasons for not participating in certain activities. Employers should ensure the event is inclusive, voluntary, and respectful of everyone’s beliefs.
HR Update
Scheduling the party during a lunch hour or offering alternative social events can help foster a sense of belonging for all staff.
Also, remember that December is a busy and sometimes difficult time for many people especially those with family commitments or who may be experiencing financial pressures. Keep this in mind when planning activities and expectations.
4. Address Accessibility and Safety
Make sure the venue is accessible to all employees and that travel options are safe and well communicated. Consider how staff will get home if the party runs late — encouraging the use of public transport, taxis, or providing transport can help prevent drinkdriving or other safety issues.
5. Plan for Post-Party Conduct
Incidents at or after the party can still be considered workplace issues. Employers should be prepared to address any complaints seriously and investigate them promptly under normal grievance or disciplinary procedures. Be consistent and avoid making exceptions due to the informal nature of the event.
Christmas parties are a valuable opportunity to build camaraderie and celebrate successes, but they come with responsibilities. By planning ahead, communicating clearly, and fostering an inclusive, respectful atmosphere, employers can reduce the risk of employee relations issues while still allowing everyone to enjoy the festive season.
With the right approach, employers can make the Christmas party a positive experience that strengthens team spirit — not a source of HR headaches in the new year.
In advance of the event, consider sending an email memo such as our template below:
HR Update
Dear Team,
As you are aware the Christmas Season is approaching, and we will be having our company party.
This is a great event, and I hope everyone can make it, however I am just writing to remind everyone that it is a work event. As such you are reminded that you are expected to behave in a manner that reflects the company values of respect and dignity for its employees.
If you are having a drink, please take responsibility of your consumption and don’t overindulge as this could result in behaviour that may cause an issue for you or the company.
You are also reminded that you are expected to adhere to the company Bullying and Harassment policy while at company events. Please remember that if someone indicates that your behaviour is unwelcome, stop whatever it is that you are doing and be respectful if their position.
We are encouraging everyone to have a good time but are asking you to be mindful that your own behaviour does not affect another member of the team.
Also, please remember that if you are posting on Social Media platforms, that you keep the posts appropriate and in line with company expectations. Please do not post inappropriate statements of photos that undermine employee or company credibility.
You will be provided with a copy of the Corporate/Social Events Policy in advance of the event.
Any complaints will be addressed through the company’s Grievance and Disciplinary procedures.
Signed, Management
A copy of the ISME Corporate and Social Events Policy template can be found here along with our Dignity at Work policy template which can be reviewed here.
Learning & Development
The ISME Skillnet service is here to help both the business owner and their employees.
ISME Members can receive up to 40% discount on ISME Skillnet training, view courses below. SCAN THE QR CODE TO FIND THE FULL LISTING
Customer Service & Complaints Handling
Thursday 6th November View Course
Jason Cooper B2B Sales Workshops for SMEs
Wednesday November 12th & Thursday November 13th View Course
Instagram for Business
Wednesday 12th November View Course
Introduction to Canva
Monday 17th November View Course
Microsoft Excel Creating & Working with Pivots
Wednesday 19th November View Course
