Call for Taoiseach to consider €45 billion plan for Waterford and South East
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness has called on Taoiseach Micheál Martin to consider the strategy
A call has been made for Taoiseach Micheál Martin to consider a €45 billion economic plan for Waterford and the South East.
‘Waterford & The South East 2075: A Regional Strategy for Prosperity & Connectivity’ sets out a vision for a €45 billion regional economy over the coming decades.
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness spoke on the subject of the report in the Dáil recently.
Deputy McGuinness said: “The recent regional strategy for prosperity and connectivity launched by the Waterford Chamber of Commerce targets a €45 billion economy for the connected south east region over the coming decades.
“Has the Taoiseach read the report? What will he do to promote regional economic growth so that decisions taken in Dublin work for regions outside Dublin and ensure that areas like the south east and Waterford city can live up to their potential?”
In response, the Taoiseach said he is familiar with the Waterford Chamber of Commerce and has met with them on a number of occasions.
Deputy Martin said: “I met the Waterford Chamber of Commerce on a number of occasions and am familiar with its reports.
“I think it is very go-ahead and forward looking. We will respond as we have on a number of initiatives that it has asked us to respond to.”
Speaking after the exchange, Deputy McGuinness said that the challenge for Waterford was to ensure that the strategy translated into real investment and action.
He stated: “The ambition set out by Waterford Chamber is significant. Waterford and the wider South East have enormous potential, but that potential will not be realised without the right investment, infrastructure and Government support.
“Too many key decisions are taken in Dublin without enough consideration of their impact on regions like ours. That has to change.
“The strategy highlights the importance of transport connectivity, housing, healthcare, higher education, renewable energy and enterprise development.
“These are all areas where Government decisions will determine whether Waterford and the South East can grow and prosper.”
Deputy McGuinness called on the Government to produce a clear plan to support the economic plan.
“We need to see a clear plan from Government to support this ambition. That means setting priorities, committing funding and ensuring that major infrastructure projects are delivered.
“Regional development cannot simply be a matter of fine words and long-term strategies.
“Waterford is the anchor city for the South East. Investment in our transport links, third-level education, healthcare and housing would benefit communities and businesses across the region.
“We need Government to recognise that and act accordingly.”
He concluded by saying that Waterford and the South East deserve the same ambition and investment as other parts of the country.
“We need a Government that works with the region to deliver the infrastructure, services and jobs required to fulfil its potential,” Deputy McGuinness added.