CCI wants real progress in developing regions

The Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI) has challenged the Government to show tangible success in its efforts towards developing the Border, Midlands and Western (BMW) region.

Speaking to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise and Small Business in Athlone today, CCI Vice President Jim Lawlor said: "We have seen no real progress in overcoming the problem despite several regional development policies and it is high time that the Government does more than just pay lip service."

He said that the Government must refine and focus its policies in areas like the National Spatial Strategy and decentralisation.

Lawlor said that the Government must determine the level of investment required to make the areas identified in the NSS viable gateways and hubs.

He also urged the Government to introduce private sector incentives or reliefs to stimulate greater investment in these centres.