The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise and Innovation, Frances Fitzgerald has today launched “Towards Responsible Business”, Ireland’s Second National Plan on Corporate Social Responsibility 2017-2020.

The Plan articulates a vision for Ireland to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence for responsible and sustainable business practices. It also aims to support the Government’s objective of building a strong economy and fairer society.  

CSR has been practiced by companies, large and small, throughout Ireland for many years. The breadth of CSR activity in Ireland is widespread and is recognised through programmes such as Business in the Community Ireland’s “Business Working Responsibly Mark” and Chambers Ireland’s Annual CSR Awards.

Speaking today, Tánaiste, Frances Fitzgerald said, "Today, more than ever, the Irish Government needs to deliver a clear message of encouragement and support to businesses and organisations around Ireland to embed responsible business practices at the core of their business strategies." 

She added, "Businesses who communicate openly and transparently about their practices, who tell their story and recognise their impacts on society, foster a culture of trust with their workforce and their customers. CSR is no longer an optional ‘add-on’, but is becoming a necessary part of mainstream operations."

Source: www.businessworld.ie