Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 January 2013
94. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the initiatives that may be taken to develop further co-operation and joint projects between private and public bodies working with businesses in order to support local job creation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3559/13]
View answerThe Action Plan for Jobs has been a cornerstone of Government policy in seeking to create a supportive operating environment where businesses can grow and generate jobs. The Action Plan recognises the role that public bodies play in supporting the private sector and communities to create jobs at a local level.
A number of significant activities which focused on supporting employment creation and retention at a local level were delivered over the course of 2012 under the Action Plan process. For example, within my own Department’s remit, over €18 million was allocated to the 35 County and City Enterprise Boards to provide a range of supports to micro-enterprises and entrepreneurs across the country.
My Department and its agencies engaged on an on-going basis with private sector bodies to progress specific initiatives that promote employment. For example, Enterprise Ireland has been working with its client companies to improve access to public procurement opportunities for SMEs, while my Department has worked with the business sector to progress a range of sectoral initiatives in areas such as access toi finance, manufacturing, and the green economy.
In June 2012, the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, launched a Local Government Sectoral Strategy to promote employment and support local enterprise. This Strategy outlines measures being taken by Local Authorities to assist enterprises in the areas of business charges, local enterprise supports, procurement, and local development and community-based initiatives.
In December 2012, the Minister of State for Tourism & Sport, Deputy Michael Ring, announced almost €26 million in new funding for local sports projects across the country. This was the first round of sports capital funding in four years. Many of the projects selected for funding under the programme will support local employment as sports facilities are improved and upgraded throughout the country.
Government agencies such as the Revenue Commissioners, County Enterprise Boards, Enterprise Ireland and Local Authorities also attend local events such as job fairs and exhibitions to provide advice to attendees.
Recognising the important role that local communities play in job creation, the Government will continue to support local development in 2013 through a range of initiatives such as these across various Departments.
