City plans ‘need full support’

IF Cork is to compete at an international level and continue to attract inward investment, its infrastructure must be right, according to Cork Chamber of Commerce president Robin O’Sullivan.

He urged all individuals, businesses and organisations in the city to back the city's plans and to exert their influence on Cork's progress in the months and years ahead.

Mr O'Sullivan said the Cork Area Strategic Plan (CASP) has been acknowledged, even within Government, as a model for local authorities throughout the country.

The local authorities were to be commended on their work, he said.

"Every support must be given to them by every Cork citizen, individual and corporate, to ensure the plan succeeds and to enable Cork once again become a leading European city region globally competitive, socially inclusive and culturally enriched," Mr O'Sullivan said.

He also urged everyone in the city and county to get fully behind the European Capital of Culture in 2005.

"We know it will be great for Cork in the medium to long-term as well as in 2005, so it is utterly appropriate to help provide the framework it needs to succeed in making it a memorable and historic year for the city, the county and the country.

"Regardless of our concerns in terms of national recognition and commitment to this unique designation, it comes down to us, " he said.

Mr O'Sullivan was speaking at a seminar yesterday entitled Moving Cork Along, jointly hosted by Cork Chamber of Commerce and the Institute of Bankers.