Minister Richmond’s first meeting of his visit to Louth was with Dundalk Chamber.
Paddy Malone, PRO, stressed the need to retain the growth centres as defined by the National Development Plan 2040. In particular the twin towns of Drogheda and Dundalk and the recognition of Newry’s importance in the region. Minister Richmond indicated that while there is a review being carried out on the Plan, he would be in favour of enhancing the existing growth centres. This would mean that the IDA and EI would prioritise those centres and that there would be no constraints placed on growth.
Pat McCormick, President pointed out that the infrastructure in Dundalk was already at capacity in some areas. He expressed the hope that capital expenditure on transport, wastewater and housing would be available to meet anticipated growth.
Minister Richmond pointed out that this region , with DkIT was well placed to develop in the financial services area. Paddy reminded the Minister of our recent win with Kaseya. Paddy also raised the question of cross border businesses and employees working and living in different jurisdictions, not just Dundalk/Newry. The Minister asked for a briefing document on this.
Hanna McDonnell, VP raised the issue of the threats to the hospitality sector. The sector was under huge pressure from a cost point of view, be it labour, energy insurance. She pointed out that the restoration of the VAT rate from 9% to 13.5% was a blow that many businesses found difficult to cope with, when the other cost were considered. The Minister did indicate some sympathy on this but said that the tax cost of the 9% was prohibitive and would welcome alternative recommendations.
