Shannon Chamber in tandem with Chambers Ireland welcomes the Action Plan for Rural Development launched today (23 January 2017) by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD.

Chambers Ireland chief executive Ian Talbot, commenting on the Action Plan said: “The ‘Realising our Rural Potential’ Plan is an important indication of Government commitment to supporting rural communities and the rural economy across Ireland. We regularly hear from our Network of Chambers of Commerce of the vitality and determination of rural businesses, and of their ambition to remain at the heart of their communities. This Action Plan is a key component of a series of strategic initiatives such as the roll out of the National Broadband Plan and the development of a National Planning Framework that, when delivered, will allow rural businesses to grow and develop within their communities.

“Initiatives such as the Regional Action Plans for Jobs and the development of an Atlantic Economic Corridor have the potential to prove transformational for the economic development of the regions, but they will require a sustained focus from policy makers and significant capital investment over the coming years if they are to prove effective. Vibrant rural communities within strong regions will ensure the long-term sustainability of rural life in Ireland.”  

Shannon Chamber chief executive Helen Downes added: “Our involvement in the Mid-West Region Action Plan for Jobs and the Atlantic Economic Corridor (AEC) points to a real need to transform economic development in the regions to provide a counter pole to the growing strength of the greater Dublin area. Support for regions along the West of Ireland corridor is essential if they are to achieve their full potential in terms of economic development. Shannon Chamber, in conjunction with all other AEC Chamber partners, will continue its work to enable this transformation.”