Delegation stresses strong potential of south-west

THE Cork region could become a showcase for the rest of Europe and develop high quality, eco jobs according to an alliance of leading business and education experts.

A Cork Chamber-led delegation on a two-day visit to Brussels investigated how European programmes, funds and policies could help achieve their aims.

Initiated by the chamber’s Science, Research and Innovation Committee, the trip was a joint effort by the business and academic communities to show the highly innovative and entrepreneurial potential of the south-west region.

Michael Loftus, head of engineering and science in the Cork Institute of Technology, explained: “We want to create an innovative eco system, deeply rooted in the local economy. We want to be able to tap into EU funds, take advantage of research opportunities and support start-ups to create sustainable jobs.”

CIT is already very involved in creating such an environment with strong links between research and business, said head of research at CIT, Dr Niall Smith.

Chairman of the chamber’s research committee and general manager of FMC International, Brendan Keane, said: “Having such significant education establishments in Cork working with industry combined with the range of businesses in the region is a big advantage.

“Cork can be an example to the rest of Ireland and Europe.”