IDA investment in Marlinstown needed now

Labour Spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Deputy Willie Penrose, has again raised the issue of the need for greater IDA investment in Westmeath. 

Deputy Penrose said:

“I have once again raised the issue of IDA investment with the Minister for Business, Enterprise, and Innovation. While there have been welcome increases in the rate of employment across the Midlands, the rate of unemployment of 7.1% still stands above the national average of 6%.

“While I acknowledge current IDA strategy is meant to be focused on the development of Regional Enterprise Strategies, to support enterprise growth and jobs in the Midland and South East region; we haven’t seen the amount of desired success from it yet. 

“There is a great opportunity for the IDA to ensure the Business Park in Mullingar is prioritised and promoted for inward investment.

“From this perspective, the need to ensure dispersal of Industry to the regions which have not been favored to date by entrepreneurs and investors has to be the central focus of any new development strategy. The IDA must recognise the challenge for us here in Mullingar in attracting foreign direct investment.

“There is an IDA site in the Mullingar which is shovel ready, just waiting for a business or enterprise to come and locate there.

“To this end, perhaps it is time for the IDA to review its policy, and commit to constructing an advance modern building on the site which would add to the attractiveness of the location. It would be ready for immediate occupation. , and when a client comes to view the facilities, this could well be crucial in the assessment.

“If the IDA is planning it for Athlone, I support their decision t do so, I would request that they do the same for Mullingar. A bit of equality goes a long way!

“I now intend to press the IDA to construct advanced facilities at Marlinstown Industrial Park. It could well serve as a clinching factor when the clients inspect the site for potential investment.”