AN OIREACHTAS COMMITTEE has unveiled to kickstart the economy of the south-east of the country.

The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation says that creating “a sense of shared purpose” will help the region to revive its economy.

Among the proposals are:

• A regional IDA office and director in Waterford City
• The establishment of a technological university in the region
• The development of a regional transport hub to maximise the use of Rosslare and Waterford and ensure the completion of the Enniscorthy and New Ross Bypass
• Investment in fibre network broadband
• Investment in the regional airport
• Supporting tourism and developing a tourism strategy
• Making the region a world leader in food

Report author Senator David Cullinane said that the region is under pressure, but can bounce back.

“The south-east region faces many challenges including high unemployment, low educational attainment levels and social disadvantage.

“However, it has many strengths, including an improved road infrastructure, water and waste water treatment plants, the Rosslare and Waterford Ports and the Institutes of Technology.

With the right policies, a coherent regional approach and a focus on the key strengths of the region I have no doubt that the south-east can and will develop socially and economically and create the necessary jobs. We must foster a spirit of doing it for ourselves, support creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship and allow the region to flourish and grow.

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