Upgrade to university could create 736 jobs

AN ADDITIONAL 736 jobs could be created in Waterford and the south-east if Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) were upgraded to a university, the local Chamber of Commerce says.

The chamber is hosting an economic conference this Friday, April 7, focusing on the jobs claim and the need to boost the region’s appeal as a major jobs hub.

According to a Goodbody report commissioned by the chamber, a university for Waterford would not only see employment generated by the institute increase by over 50% on current levels (1,479 to 2,215), but would also generate €97.6 million for the local economy, an increase of almost 50% on the current figure of €65.5m.

Waterford Chamber president Dr Frank Dolphin said the figures were based on the economic impact of a university after five years, which would also result in a significant number of additional high-quality jobs in the south-east region.

The south-east has traditionally lagged behind the rest of the country economically, with per capita incomes in the region 89.5% of the national average.

“Rather than waiting for the Government and industry to take remedial action for the region ten years down the line, it is clear that a university, sensible investment and a greater level of confidence are what’s needed now, in order to get the south-east back on track in economic terms,” said Dr Dolphin.

Dr Dolphin said Waterford Chamber was leading the way in identifying opportunities and defining a clearer vision for the economic renewal of the south-east and providing a platform for discussion and debate at the Conference - Vision South-East 2020 - taking place on Friday.

Chamber chief executive Monica Leech said there is a real hunger in the region for change and a desire forbusiness growth and development.

“Our Economic Conference will be one of Waterford’s most important business forums ever, and the chamber and industry heads will lead the debate on what is needed to drive this region to ensure it becomes an area of dynamic business growth.”

“It is up to industry leaders in the area to mould a new future for the region and to change the economic landscape” said Ms Leech.

The Vision South-East, 2020 speaker line-up will include: Transport Minister Martin Cullen; Sean Dorgan, IDA; John McGrath, FÁS; John Condon, President of American Chambers of Commerce South-East; Jim Power, Friends First; Catherine O’Reilly, Irish tourist Industry Confederation; Professor Gary Davies and Senator Martin Mansergh.

Ms Leech, conference director, urges anyone with an interest in the creation of new jobs to attend.

* Further information is available on www.waterfordchamber.ie or by contacting 051-311136.