|
“Notwithstanding the current financial stresses, it is critical that the Four Year Plan and Budget 2011 are implemented to deliver the growth expected in the economy next year”, Dr. Alan Ahearne told the audience at a lunch-time discussion hosted by the Western Development Commission (WDC), today, 22nd November. “The Four Year Plan will see a strong emphasis on driving that economic growth by improving competitiveness and concentrating on the development of specific industries which are crucial to our long term recovery. In terms of job creation, the role of small businesses and the indigenous sector will be of particular importance to the Western Region, where key industries include tourism, medical devices, life sciences and the creative industries”, he added.
The lunch-time discussion took place at NUI Galway on the occasion of the WDC end of year Board Meeting. It was attended by the Regional Managers of state organisations and a number of private companies that have received funding from the Western Development Commission Investment Fund.
Guests at the lunch were welcomed by NUI Galway President, Dr. James Browne, who said; “As the only university in the Border, Midland and West Region, NUI Galway is highly aware of its responsibilities to this region. We share many common goals with the WDC and, like the WDC, seek to develop strong partnerships with stakeholders to ensure we are meeting the social, cultural and economic needs of our region. Through our various activities in teaching, research, and outreach, we support the mission of the WDC. In particular, the work conducted by our Centre for Innovation and Structural Change (CISC) with the WDC will set the course for much of the policy on the West’s future sustainability”.
Concluding proceedings at the lunch, Gillian Buckley, WDC Acting CEO and Investment Manager said, “We are operating in turbulent times in which the Western Region faces considerable challenges. At the WDC, we will continue to work with key partners on new approaches to addressing those challenges by tapping into the underutilised potential and assets of the Region.
“As alluded to by Dr. Alan Ahearne, many of these opportunities are represented by industry sectors in which the Western Development Commission has invested through its Investment Fund and through our ongoing collaborative work with key partners, many of whom are here today. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Ahearne who has given a clear context to the structural and fiscal reform which we must embrace. Against this framework, we will continue to work together, harder and smarter, bringing new talents and perspectives to the challenge so that we can look forward to future prosperity”.
|
