Calls for renewed impetus on development of enterprise centres – Brendan Smith

Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan–Monaghan Brendan Smith has reiterated in the Dáil this week the need to provide adequate financial supports to allow local authorities develop enterprise centres.

 

By way of a Parliamentary Question to An Taoiseach, Deputy Brendan Smith sought an update on the development of workspace hubs under the Shared Island Initiative and when such facilities may be delivered in areas such as Cavan and Monaghan.

 

“Recently in response to my Parliamentary Questions in Dáil Éireann, An Taoiseach confirmed that a feasibility assessment on developing SME workspace hubs was carried out by Cavan and Monaghan County Councils, in partnership with local authorities in Northern Ireland, supported through the Shared Island Development Funding,”  he said.

 

An Taoiseach confirmed that the feasibility study was completed in November 2024 and that the Shared Island Unit continues to monitor progress as discussions with relevant Departments and agencies continue.

 

Deputy Brendan Smith also raised the issue with the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, asking whether additional financial supports will be made available to local authorities and community groups to develop enterprise centres.

 

“In further Parliamentary Questions to the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, I again emphasised the critical importance of enterprise centres and workspaces to the economy of our smaller towns and rural areas,” he said.

 

The Minister responded that balanced regional enterprise development remains a key priority for his department, noting that the Smart Regions Scheme includes ring-fenced funding for the Northern and Western region.

 

Deputy Smith concluded by underlining the value of enterprise centres to local communities.

 

“Enterprise Centres play a key role in providing workspace for start-up and small businesses. They are a space which gives people a genuine opportunity to grow their business and allow them to become as successful as possible. We must continue to support enterprise and give everyone the same chance,” he concluded.