An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, recently visited the Western Development Commission office in Ballaghaderreen to meet the team behind the organisation.
At the meeting with Mr. Kenny a clear case for the need for continued progress in finding sustainable solutions for the Western Region’s growth was made. It was emphasised that an enlightened, innovative approach to developing the region’s economy in the coming years was also important in the national interest.
In addition recent developments, areas such as policy, access to finance, renewable energy, the creative economy, tourism and life sciences were discussed.
Earlier in the day the Commission’s Chairperson and CEO had a two-hour meeting with one of the Taoiseach’s special advisors, Mr. Andrew McDowell, during which ambitious plans for an enhanced role for the WDC were discussed.
Chairperson Paddy McGuinness said: “The WDC very much appreciates An Taoiseach making himself available to meet with the staff and discuss the challenge facing us all to accelerate the region’s growth in the coming years”.
CEO Ian Brannigan stated: “The WDC staff were delighted to meet with the Taoiseach and outline to him the contribution made by the commission in supporting over 2,200 jobs in the region in recent times”.
Furthermore he stated: “We believe we reinforced the case of having a strong Western Region fully contribute to the national growth story. Critically the WDC’s expertise, insight and investment in regional enterprise growth, best works when it is led by the region directly.”
A presentation was made to the Taoiseach of a cycling shirt signifying the ‘Yeats2015’ WDC supported 150th commemoration of the birth of the iconic poet WB Yeats.
