Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
70. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will consider developing four regional hubs to support seedbed and fledgling tourism businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31311/23]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Local Enterprise Offices are units within each of the 31 Local Authorities nationwide and act as a ‘first-stop-shop’ for providing advice and guidance, and other supports to those wishing to start or grow their own business.
The LEOs provide a wide range of high-quality business and management development programmes, and productivity supports that are tailored to meet specific business requirements. Whether it is a new start up or growing an existing business there is something suitable for anyone exploring self-employment as an option or for those who are currently operating a business.
A key feature and strength of my Department’s Regional Enterprise Plans (REPs) is that they are developed using a ‘bottom-up’ approach, developed by regional stakeholders, who are keenly aware of the growth opportunities and vulnerabilities in their region, and of the benefits of working collaboratively to enhance their enterprise ecosystem. Each Plan includes a number of strategic objectives and actions which are driven by Regional Steering Committees. Fáilte Ireland are leading on several actions in the REPs to support tourism development. Implementation of the Regional Enterprise Plans is progressing in each of the nine regions.
The Deputy may wish to note that my Department has secured up to €145m in funding from the European Regional Development Fund which will support projects aligned to the Regional Enterprise Plans. Projects, such as the development of new hubs, will have the opportunity to apply for this funding when the first call is announced in the coming months.
My Department and the Department of Rural and Community Development are leading on the development of a National Hub Strategy which will be based around the themes of enterprise, employment and non-commercial community activities.
The enterprise theme will be led by my Department and look at the current and future role enterprise centres and hubs play in supporting start-ups and entrepreneurs as well as the sustainability of enterprise centres and hubs.
It is expected that the Strategy will set out time-bound actions, assigned to Government Departments and state agencies, to ensure that the hub sector remains relevant, accessible and sustainable.
