Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
2387. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of progress as provided under the programme for a partnership Government on the development of a new Atlantic economic corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34075/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to create sufficient scale in the West, through an Atlantic Economic Corridor (AEC), to match other areas in developing infrastructure, attracting Irish and multinational investment, and growing jobs and wealth in local communities. The initiative supports the regional growth objectives set out in the Government's National Planning Framework to 2040.
An AEC Taskforce was established in March 2017 to progress the initiative. Minister of State Seán Kyne chairs the Taskforce, which includes senior representatives from the business sector, key Government Departments, other public bodies, and Third Level institutions. The Taskforce has met six times since it was established, and will continue to meet on a regular basis.
A number of sub-groups of the Taskforce are also working to progress specific aspects of the overall proposal, such as examining infrastructure needs and enterprise property assets, and developing a communications strategy.
On 29 June, I launched the new online hub www.atlanticeconomiccorridor.ie. This website is the first step in a communications strategy for the AEC. The website offers information on advice and supports available to people thinking of setting up a business in the region, or for those interested in relocating and creating an Atlantic-coast lifestyle for themselves or their families.
Local Authorities are playing a key role in the development of the AEC, and in particular are helping to ensure a cohesive approach is taken across the Corridor. My Department is providing funding of €30,000 to each of the 10 Local Authorities along the Corridor to support the appointment of an AEC Officer who will help to promote the AEC initiative and support the work of the Taskforce and its sub groups.
