Pat McCormick, President Dundalk Chamber and Paddy Malone (PRO), met with Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe when he visited Dundalk recently. Pat took the opportunity of highlighting the Chamber’s concern regarding BREXIT and the strategic importance of the region and DkIT’s place in that.
He emphasised that the region was well placed to grow in the future. This had been highlighted in the Chamber’s submission on the 2040 National Plan. Paddy highlighted the Chamber’s previous budget submission and out call for
- Living city initiative to be extended to Dundalk
- Brexit plans had been targeted at exporters but our retail and small businesses were equally exposed and have not got the same supports
- In the light of rates being reassessed at the moment some graduated relief with Dundalk North getting most and a gradual reduction to Drogheda South
In reply the Minister stated that the region had been properly recognised in the Plan and that the Government was working well with Louth County Council in that regard. The region had a significant role to play given its location and population.
He did indicate that there may be some flexibility within some capital funds to be more targeted at BREXIT exposed areas, including town centres.
