The lack of affordable housing is a major issue for workers in Cork, the Cork Chamber has said.
Last week, new figures revealed that rents in the city have risen by 7.4% in the past year - with the average rent now standing at €1,793.
Yesterday, Cork Chamber presented Finance Minister Michael McGrath with their pre-budget submission.
It is expected this year’s budget will contain measures to mitigate the cost of living crisis, as well as tax breaks for renters and mortgage holders.
The Chamber is calling for the extension of the Croí Cónaithe scheme - which supports the building of apartments for sale to owner-occupiers.
Speaking to RedFM News, Conor Healy from Cork Chamber said investment should also focus on helping the city reach net zero carbon emissions.
“The area of particular relevance and importance in Cork over the next number of years is renewables,” he said.
“[We should be] really fast-forwarding the investment that is happening in our renewable sector.
“In particular, a specific fund for Cork… to enable our climate actions over the next number of years.”
The budget is due to be held in October.
