12 November 2015
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Ibec Cork, the group that represents business in the region, will launch its General Election 2016 campaign at 11:30am tomorrow (Friday November 13) in Maryborough House, Cork, where it will set out the key priorities for the region for the next government.
At the launch, which will be attended by key business leaders and election candidates, Ibec will outline how to attract more investment, create more jobs and make Cork a better place to live, work and do business. The event will be chaired by Political Editor of the Evening Echo Mary Smithwick and will be addressed by Ibec President Gerry Collins of Janssen and Managing Director of Voxpro Communications Dan Kiely.
Ahead of the event, Ibec Cork Regional Director Peter O’Shaughnessy said: “Unemployment in the South West region including Cork has fallen from 14.3% three years ago, to just above the national average of 9.9%. Over the same period, employment has grown by 4.5%. However, massive strides still need to be made to ensure the region benefits fully from the wider economic recovery. Under investment in housing, the road network, education and health, along with a growing population means we are not prepared for the next phase of the recovery.
“We have a limited window to plan for these pressures and we urgently need to see a mind-set change from politicians and policy makers. Successful businesses are central to Cork’s economic prospects and the creation of a truly dynamic, diverse economy. We are calling on political parties and candidates to set out a clear plan for the region over the coming years.
“The next government needs to actively support growth and investment in towns across the region. Creating jobs and maintaining a positive business environment must be a priority. Failure in this regard will jeopardise future prosperity and set back the recovery in Cork.”
