Border region job creation
Deputy McLoughlin raises weak job growth in the Border region and asks what the Government is doing to rebalance it, especially with Brexit pressures. The Tánaiste says the issue is being addressed through economic development and the Action Plan for Jobs, including regional plans.
In the programme for Government, special consideration is given to the creation of new jobs in many rural areas throughout the country. The Tánaiste is aware the Border region, of which counties Sligo, Leitrim and south Donegal are part, has, unfortunately, witnessed the lowest level of job growth than any other region.
Comment on this
On this basis, will the Tánaiste please advise the House on the efforts the Government is making to rebalance this job creation growth, particularly given Brexit and weakening sterling, which have already resulted in job losses in the region?
Comment on this
This will primarily be affected by continued economic development and the Action Plan for Jobs, and I assure the Deputy the Regional Action Plan for Jobs will make absolutely sure every area in the country benefits from the job creation we see, as it has already in terms of the percentage of jobs last year. There was growth in Dublin but there was also growth in all regions. The area about which the Deputy is speaking is an area that does need focus and attention.