Three Ministers in Mountmellick to launch new Regional Enterprise plan

Three government ministers were in Mountmellick on Wednesday 6th February to launch a new Regional Enterprise plan.

Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan, Minister for Business, Enterprise, and Innovation Heather Humphreys and Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton were present fot the event.

A big crowd turned out for the unveiling with MDA Chairman Paul Dempsey joined on the podium by the three ministers and Dr Anne Cusack

The Midlands Regional Enterprise Action Plan to 2020 intends to build on each region’s strengths and hopes to address and challenges they may face.

Minister Flanagan said: “In Mountmellick, I don’t think we’ve ever had an occasion where three cabinet ministers have gathered for one event like we have here.

“But it does stress the importance of the Regional Enterprise Plan to 2020 for the Midland Region. It is almost seven years since Minister Bruton launched the Regional Action Plan for jobs.

“And I want to acknowledge the progress that has been made over that period of time in terms of jobs in the Midlands.

Minister Heather Humphreys paid tribute to the word that the Mountmellick Development Association do.

She also revealed how the organisation has secured funding from her department.

She said: “Charlie and Marcella Corcoran-Kennedy have been telling me about this facility for some time and I have to say they are right – it really is a proud example of what a local community can achieve by working together.

“They have been successful in their application for nearly €220,000 from my Department’s Regional Enterprise Development Fund.

“This money will be used to development the Beale Centre for business excellence here in this complex which will be a wonderful addition to the facilities here.