Local government reforms can plot new course for Louth economy

Issued : Thursday 18 December, 2014

Key local government reforms announced this week have the potential to facilitate greater economic development by local authorities, including Louth County Council, according to Labour Councillor, Pio Smith.

Cllr. Smith said the establishment of local economic and community plans (LECPs) will identify specific local targets and actions for local employment and community development.

“These plans will task local authorities with identifying high-level goals and specific objectives and actions for each local authority area and will oversee the local implementation of both the Government’s ‘Action Plan for Jobs’ and, for rural areas, the Government’s CEDRA report for rural development.”

“This is about maximising the economic potential of County Louth. The Council will have greater potential to promote and facilitate economic development. In the coming weeks and months ahead the council will be looking at different aspects of the local economy and deciding what best aspects to prioritise,” said Cllr. Smith.

“The Local Economic and Community Plan will be formulated by Louth County Council throughout 2015 and will have to be adopted by elected members and who will be asked to identify an on-going monitoring and reporting system,” Cllr. Smith said.

“In addition, the new Eastern and Midland regional authority, which includes Louth, will also play a key role in regional planning. The regional authority will continue the management of EU structural fund programmes and securing EU funding for specific regional projects, and linkage between these functions and spatial and economic strategy.  

 
“The new regional assembly can identify infrastructural deficits and priorities, and plan for evolving demographics. In terms of attracting employment and investment, a regional focus that connects to national transport hubs, such as airports and ports, is vital.”