26 June 2011
Irish businesses are world leaders in promoting corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the workplace, according to a new global survey.
The 2011 figures, compiled by accountancy firm Grant Thornton, show that 88% of Irish companies donate to charity (62% EU, 65% Globally), and 81% of Irish companies provide internships and work experience programmes (UK 73%, Globally 67%).
However, whilst still quite a high average, the number of Irish companies engaging in work experience programmes has declined 15% on 2009 figures.
In terms of helping other businesses to succeed through mentoring programmes, 29% of Irish companies acted as mentors, compared with 35% of businesses globally, and 31% of companies in Europe.
Grant Thornton is highlighting the benefit of supporting CSR initiatives in the hope that it may encourage other companies to engage in similar programmes.
Pat Burke, Partner in Grant Thornton, said, "Corporate social responsibility is about promoting a sense of civic duty in the workplace that is so important to the success of Ireland Inc. We are delighted to see that Irish business ranks amongst the top in the world in giving to charity and training young people with internships and work experience. However, we can always do more. Working together and doing what we can to mentor fledgling businesses and promote good ideas is how Ireland is going to get out of the difficulties we are in.
We have had the opportunity to work with great programmes like the Trinity Access Programme, the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship and the DCU Access Scholarship Programme to help young people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to go to university. We use our expertise to provide training focussed on demystifying the suit, to give students the skills they need to excel on the corporate ladder", said Burke.
In other areas of CSR 57% of Irish companies participated in community activities in 2011, compared with 47% of companies in the EU, and 55% globally.
Ireland also ranked in the top tier in promoting diversity and equality in the workplace, with 81% of Irish companies having an initiative in place in 2011, compared with 62% of companies across the EU and 50% globally.
ENDS
About
The Grant Thornton International Business Report (IBR) provides insight into the views and expectations of over 11,000 businesses per year across 39 economies. This unique survey draws upon 19 years of trend data for most European participants and nine years for many non-European economies.
Grant Thornton was recently awarded the 2011 Corporate Partner of the Year by the DCU Access Scholarship Programme. Grant Thornton shortlisted for a Chambers Ireland CSR award for their involvement with the Trinity Access Programmes in 2010. Grant Thornton is involved CSR activities are focused on education, leveraging their expertise to promote training, exam success and personal development. Grant Thornton works with Trinity College, DCU and the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) in two Dublin secondary schools.
Grant Thornton in Ireland comprises over 400 partners and staff operating from offices in Dublin, Limerick and Kildare. The firm provides a comprehensive range of services including audit, financial planning, and advisory services to public interest entities, privately held businesses, and the financial services sectors.