Advances in infrastructure key to progress, south-east conference hears

INVESTMENT in infrastructure is a priority for business owners and their employees in the south-east if industry, tourism and commerce in the region is to compete on a level playing field.

The Access South-East survey conducted by South East Chambers involved 318 business owners employing an estimated 11,000 people, and revealed infrastructure as a critical priority for businesses

Those surveyed also want counties in the region working more closely together on broadband, air services improved and the establishment of the long-promised university of the south-east.

Launching the report’s findings, businessman and chairman of the Access South East committee, Orm Kenny, said without quality infrastructure in the region, it could not help in the drive to getting the country back on its feet.

“The potential for the national economy to benefit from the hard work of south-east based businesses is entirely dependent on having the infrastructure in place to facilitate commerce, to improve visitor access to the region and to demonstrate the area’s attractiveness for investment.”

“We as a region have traditionally scored poorly on a range of economic indicators and this has been attributed primarily to inadequate infrastructure provision.

“However, with a population of around 500,000, the region has significant economic potential that, if unlocked, can be a major contributor to the national economy,” he said.

Chairman of South East Chambers Eric Barron stressed the need for further development of Waterford Regional Airport.

“The further development of the airport can be achieved cost effectively. This will transform the attractiveness of the region to investors and will facilitate the expansion of regional tourism to exploit new trends in travel and leisure,” he said.

Access South East is an initiative by South East Chambers representing the business community in the south-east region.