2. Table of Contents
Foreward 3
Vision 2020 4
Executive Summary 5
1.0 National & Regional Framework 6
1.1 National Spatial Strategy 6
1.2 Regional Planning Guidelines – SERA 8
1.3 Ahead of the Curve – Ireland's Place in the Global Economy 10
1.4 Making Ireland’s Development Sustainable 11
2.0 Profile and Performance of the South East Region 12
2.1 Physical Region and its infrastructure 12
2.2 Demographics 13
2.3 Economic Statistics & Trends 14
2.4 Business Sectors 17
2.5 Education & Life Long Learning 18
2.6 Leisure Infrastructure 19
3.0 Six Key Economic Properties for the South East Agenda 2020 20
3.1 Improve Transportation Access within Ireland 20
3.2 Develop International Transportation Linkages 21
3.3 Create a University of the SouthEast 22
3.4 Invest in Life Long Learning 23
3.5 Develop a Sustainable Environment 23
3.6 Develop and Promote Leisure Opportunities 25
4.0 SEA 2020 – The South East Agenda Business Plan 26
APPENDIX I South East Chambers of Commerce 27
APPENDIX II South East Agenda Task Force 28
APPENDIX III Driving the South East Agenda Regional Conference 29
APPENDIX IV Bibilography 30
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3. 3
Foreward
In January 2005, the South East1
Chambers launched the South East Agenda taskforce2
at their
regional conference‘Driving the South East Agenda’3
with the objective of identifying the key
regional priorities that would underpin the growth of economic and enterprise development in
the region. The context for the taskforce was the relative under-performance of the South
East's economy relative to other regions in Ireland.
Many have outlined the urgency and need for change in
the South East Region:
“The South East Region has been left behind both
in terms of infrastructure and, consequently, in terms of
economy, enterprise and, as a result,
employment.”
It's time for Action – IBEC South East,January 2005
“The lack of a university in the South East is a
glaring deficit in the region's educational
infrastructure.”
Dr.Edward Walsh,President Emeritas,University of Limerick,
South East Chambers Regional Conference – Driving the South
East Agenda - January 2005
“The existing deficiencies in the region's
infrastructure, in particular, transport infrastructure, are
impacting negatively on the competitiveness of the
enterprise sector.”
Regional Planning Guidelines,SERA,May 2004
The terms of reference established for the taskforce
involved reviewing progress of the South East Region in
recent years, identifying key regional priorities in the areas
of infrastructure, enterprise, education and quality of life
using the framework of the National Spatial Strategy and
identifying implementation resources required in order to
progress these priorities.
The taskforce was set up with membership
representation from the chambers in the region. A smaller
working group was formed to write the report.
Submissions were invited from the chambers in the region
and the taskforce undertook a detailed review of national,
regional and county policy documents and guidelines. A
number of consultation and review meetings were held
with different parties in the region.
The South East Agenda taskforce was dedicated in
delivering their remit holding many meetings and working
on this report in their free time. I would like to
acknowledge the commitment of all eight members of the
task force drawn from various business sectors and also to
thank all the chambers in the South East for their support
and vision in endorsing this Agenda.
I look forward to all partners in the South East
implementing SEA 2020 in conjunction with the South
East Chambers.
Joe Kenny
Chairman, South East Chambers
May 2005
1 Membership of South East Chambers listed in Appendix I
2 Membership of the South East Agenda taskforce listed in Appendix II
3 Driving the South East Agenda Regional Conference Programme in Appendix III
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4. 4 SERA – Regional Planning Guidelines – Implementing the National Spatial Strategy (2004)
4
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Vision 2020
“ By 2020 the South East will be recognised as a
distinct and cohesive region that is prosperous and competitive,
where the benefits of economic success are shared equitably
throughout the region and throughout society, and which offers
a good quality of life in an environment rich in heritage
and landscape value.”
Figure 1: The Strategic Vision for the South East4
5. 5
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Executive Summary
The South East Region has failed to fully participate in the economic boom that has been
enjoyed by the country over the past decade. The economic performance points to a region
that is over dependent on labour intensive industries such as traditional manufacturing and
agriculture and is lacking fundamental building blocks necessary to stimulate economic
growth and prosperity within the new knowledge economy.
This report examines the structure and performance of the
South East against the backdrop of the National Spatial
Strategy. Collectively, the South East Chambers of
Commerce joined forces to work on this report with the
specific aims of:
> Reviewing the progress of the South East Region in
recent years
> Identifying key regional priorities in the areas of
infrastructure, enterprise, education & quality
of life using the framework of the National Spatial
Strategy
> Identifying implementation resources and
highlighting areas not being progressed
The report is structured around four interrelated issues.
Firstly, the national and regional level policy frameworks
that establish both the economic and social objectives for
the country as a whole and also the expectations of region-
al areas in contributing to, and benefiting from, achieving
those objectives. Secondly, outlining the profile and per-
formance of the South East and particularly its strengths
and future opportunities.Thirdly, the report identifies the
key economic priorities for the region and fourthly, sug-
gests the implementation approach that could deliver the
vision for SEA 2020. Figure 1 shows the interrelated nature
of these areas and the need to build on both policy and
performance to create the priorities that will create the
antecedents of the needed economic growth and develop-
ment in the region.
The analysis of the regional profile and the national policy
framework suggests that two critical areas exist and which
require prioritisation. Firstly, the region has failed to partici-
pate effectively in the new knowledge economy and must
as a matter of urgency strengthen its educational and
knowledge creation infrastructure. Secondly, the region
must strengthen the connectivity of the region, both intra-
regionally and to major trading areas nationally and inter-
nationally. Based on these findings the report identifies six
key economic priorities that are vital for enterprise growth
in the region.
1 Improving transportation access within Ireland
2 Developing international transport linkages
3 Creating a University of the South East
4 Investment in life long learning at all levels
5 Developing a sustainable environment
6 Developing and promoting leisure opportunities
Implementation of these priorities will involve the creation
of a steering group to coordinate the translation of the
priorities into specific plans at the level of the towns and
cities in the region. A coordinated approach to
implementation is both desirable and necessary and will
provide an integrated planning framework that is
consistent across all regional areas.
SEA 2020 – the South East Business Plan will be
commissioned to develop the business case for each
Chamber town and city in the region outlining the key
actions over the next 15 years that will contribute to the
key economic priorities in this report being addressed.
National and Regional
Policy Framework
Figure 2: Structure of the Report
Regional Profile and
Performance
The Six Priorities The South East
Business Plan
SEA 2020
6. 6
1.0 National & Regional Framework
National policy provides the framework for the future development of the state and sets the
guidelines in which regional development of a sustainable and relevant nature can take place.
The National Spatial Strategy for Ireland (2002-2020) created a vision for how development
should take place over the period to 2020 in a manner that would allow all regional areas to
flourish while simultaneously contributing to orderly national economic and social enhancement.
1.1 National Spatial Strategy
The National Spatial Strategy (NSS)5
determined that in the
South East Region critical mass would be enhanced with
Waterford performing as a Gateway, supported by Kilkenny
and Wexford as hubs.These three together form a
nationally strategic 'growth triangle'.
Waterford, Kilkenny and Wexford will drive regional growth
by providing a large and skilled population base,
substantial capacity for residential and employment related
functions and an improving transport network. County
towns, other towns, villages and more rural areas should be
positioned to support the full realisation of the potential for
economic development throughout the region, with a
particular emphasis on complementing the Gateway and
hub approach.
The NSS outlined the integrated network of population
zones throughout the South East.There are a significant
number of major towns and cities with a population of over
5000; these include not only the Gateway city of Waterford
and the hubs of Kilkenny and Wexford but also towns of
Carrick-on-Suir, Carlow, Clonmel, Dungarvan, Enniscorthy,
New Ross, Gorey and Tramore.The positioning of these
cities and towns as a network provides substantial
development potential of a balanced nature.
Complementing the larger urban zones is a substantial
number of smaller towns with populations of 1500 to 5000.
Although these towns often rely on an agricultural base
they present quality of life attractions and a rich built
heritage with high visual quality.The region has also a large
number of village and rural settlements that are dependent
on agricultural activities. Falling agricultural employment
and prosperity presents significant challenges to these
villages.The NSS however, specifically comment on the
tourism potential of the region given the number of natural
endowments that exist, including the attractive coastline,
rivers, valleys and uplands.
In 2002, the Department of the Environment and Local
Government prepared briefing materials on what the
National Spatial Strategy means for each region in the
Country and the counties it contains.
In the sections following what the NSS means for each
county and city in the South East Region is outlined.6
5 National Spatial Strategy for Ireland 2002-2020
6 NSS Regional Briefing http://www.irishspatialstrategy.ie/RegionalBriefing.shtml
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Figure 3: National Spatial
Strategy Recommendations
for the South East Region
(Source: NSS)
7. 7
Carlow
> Carlow has a key role in the South East Region,
particularly in the strength of Carlow as a
county town.
> The strong existing urban structure in the region of
which Carlow is a key part to be built on with the sup-
port of Waterford as a Gateway.
> Carlow has a strategic pivotal role placed between the
South East and Mid East region.
> The strengths of Tullow and Bagenalstown as mature
towns, relatively near to larger urban areas but with a
strong link to the rural hinterland, to be maintained
through on-going urban renewal and improvement.
Further improvement to water services would enhance
capacity for development.
> Traditional stability and prosperity of villages and rural
areas could be secured into the future through village
servicing programmes and
settlement policies
Kilkenny City and County
> Kilkenny is to be a hub with a strong relationship with
the existing Gateway of Waterford, with both helping to
build up critical mass and attractiveness of regions
for enterprise.
> The NSS will build on Kilkenny's success as a city with a
good quality of life, through further support for tourism
based on built heritage.
> This can lead further development based on
heritage and scenic attractiveness of other towns and
rural parts of the county
> Further scope for strong enterprise development, taking
account of improved accessibility to and from Dublin
> Build on the attraction of smaller towns such as
Thomastown by way of urban renewal and strengthen-
ing initiatives to strengthen their future in partnership
with larger towns.
> Traditionally stable and prosperous villages and rural
areas to be maintained through village
servicing programmes and settlement policies.
South Tipperary
> The towns in South
Tipperary like Clonmel
and Carrick-on-Suir, Cahir,
Cashel and Tipperary
town are strategically
placed in relation to the key Waterford/Limerick and
Dublin/Cork axes of the national transport framework.
> These towns, with their population base and range of
services will continue to attract employment and
investment and are therefore key resources working
with the gateways and hubs to provide a strong
platform for balanced regional development
throughout the region.
> In relation to other towns in Tipperary, the NSS
establishes the national
spatial context, within
which it will be possible to
amplify their specific
developmental roles and
capabilities.
> More rural parts of
Tipperary, including small-
er towns and villages, are
experiencing a drop in
rural populations due to a reduction in farm-based
employment. The NSS outlines measures aimed at
revitalising declining towns and villages whose services,
such as schools etc are threatened. These measures
include encouraging new housing development in such
villages through a variety of local authority driven
planning and development mechanisms.
> The NSS national transport
framework sees a clear
role for links between
Ireland's mainly radial
roads and public transport
networks. Several radial
routes for Dublin pass
through Tipperary. The
NSS also emphasises links
between the radial
corridors, such as along the
Limerick-Waterford road. This will
benefit the towns and areas along the route.
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8. 8
Waterford City and County
> Waterford's role as a
Gateway to be supported by
Kilkenny and Wexford as hubs.
> The city will provide a large
and skilled population base,
substantial capacity for addi-
tional residential and employ-
ment related functions and an
improving transport network.
> There are opportunities to
consolidate Waterford City with the River Suir at its
heart, supported by the possibilities for developing the
North Docks precinct
> Other major urban centres such as Dungarvan and
Tramore to support the Gateway and form bases of
population that will be attractive to investment and
employment activities.
> Capability of smaller urban centres needs to be devel-
oped further through urban renewal and improvement
initiatives.
> Traditional stability and prosperity of villages and rural
areas to be assured through mechanisms to enhance the
attractiveness of villages to
residential and other functions.
Wexford
> Wexford to be a hub at a
strategic location
> Important to its own
hinterland and its relationship
with Rosslare Port
> Transport corridors to and
from various parts of the
country converge at Wexford, suggesting the role of a
key transport node with economic activities related
to this.
> Hub to be complemented by development in
surrounding and adjacent towns such as Enniscorthy,
Gorey and New Ross.
> Local, regional and national packaging and
promotional activities are needed to support tourism
potential of the coastline.
> Traditional stable and prosperous villages and rural areas
need to be enhanced through village servicing
programmes and policies for residential development.
1.2 Regional Planning Guidelines –
SERA
The South East Regional Authority (SERA) represents the
five counties of the South East and the six local authorities
within those counties. In 2004, SERA produced and
adopted the Regional Planning Guidelines7
to give currency
to the NSS within a regional context by creating an
integrated set of guidelines to govern the region’s future
economic and social development. A working group that
spanned public bodies, industry and commerce, education
and state agencies produced the guidelines. The Regional
Planning Guidelines outline the vision for the region and
established a number of high-level goals.
By 2020 the South East will be recognised
as a distinct and cohesive region that is
prosperous and competitive, where the
benefits of economic success are shared
equitably throughout the region and throughout
society, and which offers a good quality of life
in an environment rich in heritage and
landscape value.
This vision will be realised through high-level goals:
> Combining the strengths of the cities and towns in the
region to achieve sufficient critical mass to compete
with larger urban centres in other regions.
> Progress towards an accessible region with
efficient and fully integrated transport systems.
> Broadening and strengthening the economic base of
the region and seeking to achieve greater economic
competitiveness and growth, with associated social
progress.
> Maintenance of the character and vitality of rural areas
and conservation of the region’s characteristic
landscape and heritage assets.
7 SERA – Regional Planning Guidelines – Implementing the National Spatial Strategy, 2004
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Figure 4:The Strategic Vision for the South East
9. 9
The Regional Planning Guidelines also review the strengths
and opportunities that exist in the region and from which
future policy could be developed.
Among the major strengths of the region are:
> Well developed urban network
> Higher than average population growth
> A range of third-level educational establishments
throughout the region
> Access to seaports and deep-water berthage for freight
and passenger transport to Britain and mainland
Europe
> Good agricultural
land, strong agricultural
production base and
processing capabilities
> A strong tradition in
engineering and recent
success to moving to
higher value-added
services
> Well-developed tourism sector with wealth of
visitor attractions, a high quality environment and a
wide range of activities (golf, equestrian, angling, walk-
ing, cycling, quality natural and built heritage etc.)
> Recent improvements to regional infrastructure such as
wastewater treatment, water supplies, roads, energy
transmission, telecommunications etc.
Certain opportunities have
also been identified:
> In-migration has
established a local
workforce which would
welcome increased
employment options
within the region
> Development of third-
level facilities and courses
within the region and the establishment of a University
of the South East have the potential to significantly
increase participation
> Improved linkages are being developed between
industry and third-level educational institutions
> Strong indigenous industrial sector with
opportunities for increased levels of Research
and Development
> Improving road and rail infrastructure
> The Regional Airport has significant capacity
for growth
> Innovative public transport systems are improving
rural mobility
> A developing retail sector is reducing leakage of retail
spending to urban centres outside the region
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10. 1.3 Ahead of the Curve – Ireland’s
Place in the Global Economy
“We must adapt and develop our strengths if we are to
succeed in tomorrow's knowledge economy”
Mary Harney, the Tánaiste and Minster for Enterprise,Trade
and Employment at the launch of the Report of the
Enterprise Strategy Group“Ahead of the Curve – Ireland's
Place in the Global Economy”, July 2004.
After a decade of sustained economic growth, Ireland now
enjoys levels of employment and living standards that
exceed the European average. During the same period,
government debts has significantly reduced and in more
recent years the economy has proved resilient to the
global downturn.
However, the nature of global trade is changing and with
our increasing prosperity and cost base it is imperative that
we must complement our existing strengths with new
capabilities.
In their report, the Enterprise Strategy Group identified five
sources of competitive advantage which when taken
together can deliver sustainable enterprises:
> Expertise in Marketing and Sales
> Expertise in focused areas of Technology/Product and
Service Development
> World Class Skills, Education and Training
> Attractive Taxation Regime
> Effective & Agile Government
The current profile of enterprise expertise in Ireland has
significant expertise in manufacturing/operations but
limited capability in Research & Development
(R&D)/Technology and Sales and Marketing:
Ireland now needs to focus on the development of Sales
and Marketing and also on Applied R&D and Technology to
facilitate the creation of new products and services. Where
possible, developments in the South East Region in the
coming years should be prioritised to attract such areas
of expertise.
The Group further identified four essential
conditions that they considered to be prerequisites to the
development of the competitive advantages outlined
above and these are:
> Cost Competitiveness
> Infrastructure
> Innovation & Entrepreneurship
> Management Capability
The South East Region has serious and identifiable
deficiencies in infrastructure. In addition, it is lagging
behind the other major regions of the country in terms of
its ability to train, educate and develop its own indigenous
population to deliver innovation and management
development within a University context and through
outreach linkages through regional enterprises.
In order for the South East Region to achieve its Vision
2020 it is therefore necessary to adopt these prerequisites
as priority objectives.
10
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R&D Technology Manufacturing |
Operations
Salels &
Marketing
Expertise
Figure 5: Profile of Expertise in Enterprise in Ireland, 2004
(Source: Enterprise Strategy Group Report)
R&D Technology Manufacturing |
Operations
Salels &
Marketing
Expertise
Profile of Expertise in Enterprise in
Ireland, 2004
Figure 6: Required Profile of Expertise in Enterprise in Ireland,
2015 (Source: Enterprise Strategy Group Report)
Profile of Expertise in Enterprise in
Ireland, 2015
11. 11
1.4 Making Ireland's
Development Sustainable
In the Department of the Environment’s report,‘Making
Ireland’s Development Sustainable (2002)’8
the following
explanation was set out
“sustainable development is about getting the
balance right between the economy,social issues and
the environment so that we,as well as people in other
parts of the world,are able to enjoy economic
prosperity,social progress and a high quality
environment – both now and in the future.It's about
getting these three elements working together for a
better overall quality of life,instead of gains in one area
being offset by losses in another”
“Making Ireland's Development Sustainable”was produced
for the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable
Development held in 2002. The report focused primarily on
the environment-economy link being the priority issue now
for sustainable development policy in Ireland. It reflected
on a number of social issues including:
> Ireland is now challenged by the nature, location and
pace of economic growth; changing population and
settlement patterns; underdeveloped environmental
infrastructure; and unevenly applied environmental
controls, which are impacting on environmental quality
both nationally and locally.
> The main issues are: eutrophication of inland waters;
increases in the amounts of waste; the urban environ-
ment; the impacts of settlement patterns; the need to
reduce emissions of greenhouse gases; and depletion of
natural resources and threats to biodiversity.
The broad policy objectives recommended to be followed
in working towards sustainable development are:
> A broad emphasis on eco-efficiency as a means of
achieving both environmental and economic objectives
> The need to engage the internest and attention of
individuals in this agenda
> Implementation of the National Climate Change
Strategy (2000)
> Implementation of the National Biodiversity and
National Heritage Plans (2002)
> Implementation of the revised National
Anti-Poverty Strategy
> Pressing ahead with the catchment-based approach to
water quality, including through investment in waste
water infrastructure and additional regulations where
necessary
> Development of a national strategy to meet the
requirements of the Gothenburg Protocol and the
related EU Directive concerning transboundary
air emissions
> Implementing the policy approaches to waste
management set out in Government policy statements
> Implementation fo a National Spatial Strategy,
addressing among other things issues relating to
settlement patterns
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8 Making Ireland's Development Sustainable, Department of the Environment and Local Government 2002
12. 12
2.0 Profile & Performance of the
South East Region
2.1 Physical Region and its
infrastructure
The South East Region of Ireland is a homogeneous
geographical area of 9,406 sq kms (13.5% of the area of the
state) surrounding 4 major rivers, the Slaney, the Barrow, the
Nore and the Suir. The region crosses traditional provincial
boundaries and comprises five counties, three from
Leinster, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford and two from
Munster, South Tipperary and Waterford. While the region
is predominantly rural in character there is a well-balanced
urban structure with major urban centres in Carlow,
Clonmel, Kilkenny City,Waterford City and Wexford.
A snapshot of the South East physical infrastructure is
outlined below9
:
> There are eight primary and seven national secondary
roads in the South East linking major population centres
within and outside the region. In addition there are a
number of regional roads linking centres within the
region.
> The Waterford-Dublin rail route serves three of the
region's population centres:Waterford, Kilkenny and
Carlow with five trains each way every weekday (six on
Fridays and Saturdays). Other rail links to Dublin include
two additional daily services on Carlow-Dublin (distinct
from the Waterford-Dublin Service):an early morning and
evening commuter sercvice. The Rosslare service operates
three trains daily from Rosslare Europort to Dublin,serving
Wexford,Enniscorthy and Gorey. The Rosslare-Limerick
rail route provides three trains daily connecting
Waterford and Clonmel to Limerick with other
connections via Limerick Junction and two daily
trains connecting Waterford with Rosslare.
> Bus Éireann and a number of private companies operate
services connecting the South East Region with the rest
of the country.
> Commercial port activity in the South East is centred on
Rosslare Europort,Waterford/Belview and New Ross.
> The South East Regional Airport is located six miles
south of Waterford City and has daily services to the UK
(London, Luton and Manchester) and to France (Lorient
on three days a week, reducing to a less frequent
schedule in the winter) operated by Aer Arann. The Irish
Coast Guard operates an air/sea rescue service from
the airport.
> The region has a secure supply of water for both
domestic and commercial users. Boreholes and/or
springs and some abstraction from rivers supply
urban areas.
> Wastewater collection, treatment and disposal are a
major concern to all local authorities in the region. The
Joint Waste Management Plan for the South East
requires the maximum realistic reduction, reuse and
recycling targets are achieved and that the balance of
materials are treated or disposed.
> The ESB foresees no problems in the provision of
electricity capacity to the South East Region but
requires 4-5 years advance notice of major development
shifts within the region.
> Carlow, Clonmel, Kilkenny and Waterford are all on the
gas pipeline network.
> Broadband services are a key part of future
telecommunications infrastructure in the region and
work is ongoing in delivering these services on time in a
competitive manner.
9 SERA – Regional Planning Guidelines – Implementing the National Spatial Strategy (2004)
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Figure 8:
South East Transport
Infrastructure
(Source: IDA Ireland)
Figure 7:
The South East
Region of
Ireland
(Source: SERA)
13. 13
2.2 Demographics
The South East Region has 18 cities and towns with a
population exceeding 1,500.
10 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
11 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
12 CSO Quarterly National Household Survey, Quarter 4, 2004
City/Town County Population10
(2002)
Waterford City Waterford 46,736
Kilkenny City Kilkenny 20,735
Carlow Carlow 18,487
Wexford Wexford 17,235
Clonmel South Tipperary 16,910
Enniscorthy Wexford 8,964
Tramore Waterford 8,305
Dungarvan Waterford 7,452
New Ross Wexford 6,537
Carrick-on-Suir South Tipperary 5,586
Gorey Wexford 5,282
Tipperary South Tipperary 4,964
Cahir South Tipperary 2,794
Cashel South Tipperary 2,770
Bagenalstown Carlow 2,728
Tullow Carlow 2,417
Dunmore East Waterford 1,750
Thomastown Kilkenny 1,600
Figure 9: City & town populations in the South East (Source: CSO)
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Population 2002 Census Figures11
State 3,917,203
South East Region 423,616
As a % of State Population 10.8%
Proportion Urban Population 41.4%
Proportion Rural Population 58.6%
Population Density 45p/p/sq.Km.
Population Change 1996 -2002 + 32,099
% Increase in Population 1996-2002 +8.2%
Figure 10: South East Population figures - Census 2002 (Source: CSO)
2.3 Economic Statistics & Trends
Region In Employment Unemployed In Labour Unemployment Participation
’000 ’000 Force ’000 Rate % Rate %
Border 196.6 11.1 207.7 5.4 58.5
Dublin 564 24.4 588.4 4.1 62.9
Mid-East 212 6.2 218.2 2.9 63.7
Midland 107.4 4.7 112.1 4.2 60.2
Mid-West 159.4 8.5 167.9 5.1 60.9
South East 195.2 11.6 206.8 5.6 59.1
South-West 272.8 11.4 284.2 4 59.1
West 186.8 7.5 194.3 3.9 60.6
State 1,894.1 85.6 1,979.7 4.3 61
Figure 11: Unemployment Figures for Quarter 4, 200412
14. 14
13 CSO Quarterly National Household Survey, Quarter 4, 2004
14 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
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GVA13
GVA Per Capita (State = 100)13
89.3 %
GVA Per Capita (EU = 100) 118.8 %
2.3 Economic Statistics & Trends – Continued
Region Agriculture, Forestry Manufacturing & Services Total
& Fishing % Construction % % %
Border 6.3 38.6 55.1 100
Midland 5.5 32.6 61.9 100
West 5 36 59 100
Dublin 0.3 28.6 71.1 100
Mid East 3.1 53 43.9 100
Mid West 4.2 40.6 55.2 100
South East 4.7 50.5 44.7 100
South West 2.8 61.1 36.1 100
State 2.7 41.4 55.9 100
Figure 12: % GVA Produced by Sector 2002 (Source CSO)
Unemployment rate: number of unemployed expressed as a percentage of the total labour force.
Participation rate: number of persons in the labour force expressed as a percentage of the total population aged 15 or over.
GVA: Gross Value Add = difference between the value of goods and services produced and the cost of raw materials and other
inputs which are used up in production.
Region 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002
Border 92.4 92.7 92.6 90 89.4 88.9 90.9 89.8
Midland 90.3 89.7 91 89.4 88.2 88.4 89.3 92.1
West 91.6 91.2 92.6 92.3 92.7 92.5 93.7 93.9
Dublin 113.6 113.7 112.6 114.8 115.8 116 114.7 113.4
Mid East 98.1 99.1 99.5 98.7 100.3 99.8 100.3 100.7
Mid West 97.8 97.8 98.3 99.2 98.1 97.8 97.3 97.9
South East 91.3 91.1 91.2 89.9 89.2 90.8 90.9 92.2
South West 97.3 96.7 96.7 96 95 94.5 95.3 95.2
State 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100
Figure 13: Indices of Disposable Income Per Person (Source: CSO)
Income14
Disposable Household Income €6,491m
Total Household Income €7,757 m
Total Income per person €18,312
Disposable Income per person €15,322
15. 15
15 Forfás Annual Employment Survey 2003 - Manufacturing/financial and other international
services/other activities IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon Development &
Údarás Na Gaeltachta
2.3 Economic Statistics & Trends – Continued
south east
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Region 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000 ’000
Dublin 29.0 32.0 35.5 39.7 44.7 51.0 57.4 55.0 53.7 51.6
Mid East 8.5 10.1 11.6 13.7 13.9 14.4 16.1 15.2 15.4 15.8
Mid West 14.8 15.6 16.5 17.4 19.1 20.6 22.3 21.3 19.1 17.8
South West 15.1 15.5 16.3 16.6 17.9 19.5 22.7 23.5 22.5 22.2
South East 9.9 10.1 11.0 11.4 11.2 11.4 11.3 11.7 12.1 12.1
West 9.3 10.2 11.0 12.2 13.3 13.3 15.2 15.1 13.6 13.8
Midland 5.9 5.8 5.9 6.0 6.0 5.6 5.6 5.4 5.3 4.6
Border 14.2 14.7 14.0 14.3 14.3 13.3 13.5 12.4 11.8 11.3
State Total 107.1 114.4 121.8 131.7 140.8 14.9 164.5 159.9 153.8 149.6
Figure 15: Regional Trends in Permanent Full-Time Employment in Foreign-Owned, Manufacturing, Internationally Traded and Financial Services and Other
Activities (1994-2003), IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon Development and Údarás na Gaeltachta (Source: Forfás Annual Employment Survey 2003
Industry15
Irish-owned firms - permanent full-time employment €17,087
Foreign-owned firms - permanent full-time employment €12,148
Figure 14: Regional Trends in Permanent Full-Time Employment in Foreign-Owned, Manufacturing, Internationally Traded and
Financial Services and Other Activities (1994-2003), IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon Development and Údarás na Gaeltachta
(Source: Forfás Annual Employment Survey 2003)
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001
180,000
160,000
140,000
120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
20,000
0
BMW S&E All Regions
16. 2.3 Economic Statistics & Trends – Continued
16
16 Fáilte Ireland – South East Facts 2003 http://www.failteireland.ie/tourism_facts_2003
south east
a g e n d a
Socio-Economic Group South East % of State % of
’000 South East ’000 State
A - Employers & Managers
B - Higher Professional
C - Lower Professional 51.7 28% 602.6 33%
D - Non-manual
E - Manual skilled
F - Semi-skilled 85.5 46% 789.2 44%
G - Unskilled 11.2 6% 90.6 5%
H - Own account workers
I - Farmers
J - Agricultural workers
Z - all others gainfully occupied
and unknown 38.2 20% 318.3 18%
Total 186.7 100% 1,800.9 100%
Figure 16: 2002 Labour Force (Source: CSO)
Tourism16
Total # of Tourists 2003 1,958,000
Overseas Tourists 2003 907,000
Total Tourism Revenue 2003 €413m
Overseas Tourism Revenue 2003 €268m
17. 17
17 Census 2002 – Occupations, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
18 Forfás Annual Employment Survey 2003 - Manufacturing/financial and other
international services/other activities IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon
Development & Údarás Na Gaeltachta
19 Key multi-national companies in the South East Region, IDA Ireland, www.idaireland.com
20 Enterprise Ireland Manufacturing Companies – South East Region – large companies
over 201 employees
Broad Occupational Group South East % of State %
’000 South East ’000 State
Farming, fishing & forestry 16.6 9.0 96.2 5.4
Manufacturing 28.7 15.6 225.0 12.6
Building & construction 17.0 9.3 136.6 7.7
Clerical, managing & government 25.8 14.0 318.5 17.9
Communication & transport 9.4 5.1 102.4 5.8
Sales & commerce workers 23.5 12.8 239.9 13.5
Professional, technical & health 25.7 14.0 293.7 16.5
Services 17.7 9.6 170.5 9.6
Other 19.4 10.6 196.4 11.0
All Occupations 184.2 100 1,779.7 100
Figure 17: Persons males and females aged 15 years and over at work in the State and the South
East Region classified by broad industrial group.
south east
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2.4 Business Sectors
The South East Region has a higher reliance on workers in
the agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors and
manufacturing industries than the overall state average.
This practice represents low-level value chain activities.
The region has lower employment that the state average in
the following sectors: banking and financial services, real
estate, renting and business activities and public
administration and defence. The majority of service related
jobs are low skilled and relate only to local industries.
Like Ireland as a whole, a high proportion of manufacturing
industry in the South East is foreign owned employing
12,148 people in 2003.18
The key multinational companies
in the South East include Allied Signal, America on Line,
Bausch & Lomb, Braun, Genzyme, Glaxosmithkline,
Guidant, Ivax Pharmaceuticals, Lake Region
Manufacturing and Merck Sharp & Dohme.19
The South East has a strong base of indigenous industries
spread throughout the region. Some of the larger
employers in the region include Anglo Irish Group (Anglo
Irish Beef processors and Anglo Irish Meat Company),
Burnside group of companies, Glanbia, Pinewood
Laboratories, Queally Group, Richard Keenan & Co,
Showerings ("Bulmers"), Slaney Meats International,
Waterford Crystal, and Weyerhauser Europe.20
The South
East also has a strong equestrian industry that includes stud
farms and horse training facilities.
18. 18
Region Sub Degree Bachelors Grad PG Taught Research PhD
% % Dip % Masters % Masters % %
North-West & Donegal 6% 2% 3% 2% 0% 1%
West 8% 9% 13% 7% 16% 8%
Mid-West 9% 7% 7% 5% 6% 11%
South-West 17% 11% 16% 11% 14% 12%
South East 9% 6% 4% 3% 9% 3%
East 39% 56% 44% 65% 44% 61%
North-East 4% 2% 1% 2% 1% 0%
Midlands 5% 3% 4% 2% 6% 1%
Northern Ireland 0% 1% 1% 1% 0% 0%
Unknown (Ireland) 1% 3% 7% 2% 4% 3%
STATE 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
Figure 18: Distribution of Graduates in Employment 2002 (Source: HEA 1st Destinations Report)
2.5 Education & Life Long Learning
Education is a key driver of economic activity and is a
primary factor in the attraction of inward investment. The
volume and type of inward investment and economic
activity is a function of the education structures and
attainment within the region. At third level the region is
serviced by two high quality Institutes of Technology
located in the Gateway City,Waterford, and in Carlow Town.
The Tipperary Institute also provides higher-level education
in Clonmel.There is a wide range of educational facilities
throughout the counties in the region. A substantial
education infrastructure deficit is the lack of a University
in the region.
of the workforce is lower than in any other Gateway City
(Waterford 26%, Cork, 26%, Dublin 30% and Galway 34%). 25
The region has no institution specifically tasked with the
development of fourth level education (research
development and innovation) and while the existing third
level providers have endeavoured to fill this gap and have
successfully competed for research funding, nationally and
internationally, they are none the less constrained by
governance demands of the sector to which they belong.
The absence of base line funding in research and the
mission restrictions on Institutes in the region
severely limits the capacity of the region to engage in
knowledge production and commercialisation necessary for
a sustainable knowledge economy in the region.
Generally the region is under-performing other regions in
terms of educational attainment. Education level in the
region is lower than average and among the participation in
higher-level university education is low.
> Only 19.7% of workforce has 3rd level qualification
compared to national average of 26%21
> Only 5% of graduates' first destination is the South East.
Breakdown of qualifications are in figure 18. 22
> Less than 1% of research grants are awarded to the
South East. 23
The low levels of educational participation translates into
lower than national averages of employment in advanced
sectors. Employment in advanced sectors in the SE is only
25% of the workforce compared to Dublin at 62%, Mid
West at 54%, the West at 51% and the South West at
46%. 24
Similarly the numbers of managers and
professionals in Waterford as a percentage
A key component of education strategy is developing the
necessary entrepreneurship skills to provide a continuous
flow of innovation and development within the region. An
emphasis on continuing and profession development as a
key component of a knowledge region exists in the South
East with strong centres of continuing education at
Waterford Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology
Carlow and Tipperary Institute. State agencies such as the
IDA, Enterprise Ireland and FÁS, also play a significant role in
providing this key infrastructure.
The Enterprise Strategy Group's Report Ahead of the Curve
suggests that globalisation pressures require regions to
compete globally rather than nationally and in this respect
must prioritise the educational imperatives embedded
within that report, specifically the need to produce more
Sales and Marketing Graduates with International
Experience and to enhance Research and
Development skills.
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21 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO) 22 HEA First Destinations Report 2002
23 HEA 1999-2001 24 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
25 Census 2002, Central Statistics Office (CSO)
19. 19
26 South East Annual Guidebook 2005
27 South East Tourism – Guide to Meeting & Conference Facilities in Ireland’s South East
2.6 Leisure Infrastructure
The South East is a region of unrivalled beauty, rich in
historic and archaeological treasures and abounding in
excellent natural amenities, recreation and leisure facilities.
It is not only a visitor's paradise, it also provides its residents
with a superb natural environment and rich quality of life.
Because of the high average daily hours of sunshine that
the region enjoys, it is universally known as“The Sunny
South East”.
The South East offers a wide range of activity and leisure
pursuits for locals and visitors alike. The activities include a
variety of water-based pursuits, such as fishing, wind
surfing, water skiing, canoeing, river cruising and sailing.
Other activities include golf, equestrian, bird watching,
walking and cycling. Leisure pursuits include numerous
sporting events, health and wellness centres, sightseeing
and the availability of a huge variety of good food and
cooking. It is important that these valuable amenities are
identified and continued to be nurtured.
The chief tourist attractions include Dunbrody Famine Ship
in New Ross, Kilkenny Castle, the Irish National Heritage
Park in Wexford, the Rock of Cashel, the Waterford Crystal
Visitors Centre and Waterford Treasures Museum. Lesser
known attractions need to be merchandised in such a way
as to attract even more visitors and under-developed
attractions need to be identified and efforts made on a
local basis to improve their standing and to publicise the
attraction in order to attract visitors.
Each county in the region promotes its own unique
features for its residents, tourists and potential investors as
shown in figure 19.26
The South East Region has an abundance of meeting and
conference facilities that can cater for up to 1000 delegates.
South East Tourism recommend over 30 hotels and facilities
to“get away from it all”where business meetings can be
conducted in a background of calm and creativity.27
Carlow – through the waters
of time, features four superb
golf courses located
throughout County Carlow. Fishing and boating on the
Rivers Barrow and Slaney provide excellent, easily
accessible leisure time activities. Walking trails, gardens,
historical tours and stately homes and the annual Éigse
Carlow festival are among its highlights.
Kilkenny – the creative heart of
Ireland, has a medieval city and
features good food & lively
restaurants, creative crafts and
popular bars & nightclubs.The Kilkenny Arts Festival is one
of Ireland's foremost annual arts events.
South Tipperary – the
golden vale county, with
high hills and verdant
valleys promotes horse riding, hunting and hill walking. It
has many heritage sites and monuments from the lofty
Rock of Cashel to the wonders of Cahir Castle.
Waterford – the
crystal county, is
home to the Gateway
city of the region, has
many fishing villages, a panoramic upland west county and
a number of surfing beaches.There is a thriving Irish speak-
ing community centred at Ring Village.Waterford Spraoi is
the major annual cultural family festival.
Wexford – the model county, has
many cosy coastal villages and beaches,
rolling hills and scenic angling rivers
and has a number of bird watch
reserves. It boasts the driest weather in
the country. Wexford has a live
entertainment scene and hosts the internationally
renowned Wexford Opera Festival each October.
WATERFORD
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Figure 19: Features of the Counties in the South East
One County ~ Three Holidays
20. 20
3.0 Six Key Economic Priorities for the South
East Agenda 2020
The National Spatial Strategy and Regional Planning Guidelines discussed in section 1 and the
economic performance and regional profile discussed in section 2 demonstrate the importance
of creating a business climate in the South East that emphasises two critical factors,
participation in the knowledge economy and creating effective interconnectivity. With these
two critical factors in mind there is a number of priorities that should form the pillars of future
development in the region. Connectivity involves creating effective intra-region links and
involves opening access into and out from the region. The knowledge economy requires an
advanced educational and research infrastructure, a policy focus on sustainable value rich
activities that attract inward flows of knowledge creators through the provision of a‘quality of
life region’. Six priorities have been established that aim to enable economic activity grow
faster in the region.
3.1 Improve Transportation
Access within Ireland
ROADS
The National Development Plan 2000-2006 (NDP) as
currently envisaged will see the delivery of the much-needed
infrastructural improvements in the South East. The
headline impacts will be the N9/N10 motorway, including
the Carlow town bypass,Waterford City bypass, the
completion of the N11 upgrade bypassing Gorey and
Enniscorthy as well as the bridge bypass of New Ross and
the Mooncoin and Carrick-on-Suir bypasses.
These developments will underpin the National Spatial
Strategy (NSS) for the South East with Waterford
performing as a Gateway supported by Kilkenny and
Wexford as Hubs.
However the concept of these three major urban centres
performing as a 'Growth Triangle' as envisaged in the NSS
can only be achieved by full delivery of the NDP coupled
with the provision of a 21st Century Inter Urban Road
Network. A Regional Development Plan to advance and
finance this objective is now a priority.
A 21st century inter-urban road network would include
important links such as Gorey to Carlow, New Ross to
Kilkenny as well as Dungarvan to Clonmel and onwards
to Kilkenny.
The South East Region has more than its fair share of
attractive coastlines, river valleys and uplands together with
an extensive built heritage. In order to develop this
significant tourist potential, an integrated approach to the
upgrade and development of our coastal and scenic
non-national roads and local routes must also be give
urgent priority.
Other recommendations:
> N24 Limerick to Waterford upgraded to Dual
Carriageway standard
> 3rd Bridge in Waterford City
> A Vision for 2020... A majestic high-level bridge by 2020
from Wexford to Waterford linking the hinterlands of the
lower South East currently separated by the Suir Estuary.
It is only through such essential linkages that the full
potential for regional economic development can
be achieved.
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21. 21
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
In tandem with the essential developments about to take
place in the road network in the region, the public
transport systems and their associated facilities require a
similar quantum shift in investment and network structure
to provide a European Standard of service.This will only be
driven by an integrated regional body and community
awareness and demand for the necessary investment.
Specifically what is called for is as follows:
Rail
> Frequent European class intercity express service
from the region's Gateway and Hubs
(Waterford-Kilkenny-Dublin & Wexford-Dublin lines)
> Inter-urban rail service between
Carlow / Kilkenny / Waterford and
Clonmel / Waterford / Wexford
> Major expansion of Gateway and Hub railway stations
with full park & ride facilities
> Structural upgrade of rail routes to enable high speed
and high freight capability.
Bus
> High quality bus feeder service from smaller urban
centres to dovetail with intercity rail timetables
> Quality bus corridors in major urban centres to facilitate
efficient 'short hop' inter-urban bus services in region
> Park & ride facilities to bus services.
3.2 Develop International
Transportation Linkages
The traditional route from Ireland to Europe using Britain as
a Landbridge has offered many advantages to our
commercial and tourist traffic in the past. However,
congestion on both sides of the English Channel
increasingly reduces the efficiency of this route. However,
the Marco Polo II Programme28
proposes to fund projects
that encourage a shift from landbridge to other modes of
transport such as‘highways on the sea’i.e. direct links from
Ireland to the continent.
P O R T S
Waterford and Rosslare are uniquely positioned to offer a
strategic alternative of direct access to continental Europe
for ferry and freight services. Coordinated development
of our ports is therefore vital in order to deliver
this opportunity:
> Amalgamate the ports of Rosslare, New Ross and
Waterford into one Joint Port Authority in order to
maximise the competitive strengths of each, to reduce
overall operating costs and to streamline future
investment in port infrastructure including deepening
of ports
> Regional commitment and advancement of the concept
of“Fast Continental Freight Link”through Rosslare to
Europe Ro-Ro. Fastracking of the New Ross bridge
bypass will be vital to the success of this
> Re-align rail line away from Bellview Port, connect new
spur to port and develop major national lo-lo container
terminal
south east
a g e n d a28 Marco Polo Programme (2003-2010)
http://europa.eu.int/comm/transport/marcopolo/index_en.htm
22. 29 (1) SERA – Regional Planning Guidelines – Implementing the National Spatial Strategy (2004)
(2) IBEC South East - Its time for action (2005)
(3) Waterford Chamber of Commerce - USE - University for the South East
(2002)
22
3.2 Develop International
Transportation Linkages
– Continued
AV I AT I O N
The enormous growth in passenger air traffic over recent
years is likely to continue. Due to congestion and distance,
Dublin Airport is no longer an attractive option for many
South East travellers, equally Cork Airport is moving in the
same direction as Dublin.
The development of the South East Regional Airport is
therefore essential for the future of our region if we wish to
attract inward investment, develop our tourist industry and
provide our community with attractive travel options.
The South East Regional Airport can be a successful and
thriving airport with:
> Dual Carriageway from Waterford Outer Ring Road to
the airport
> Exchequer funding to upgrade Runway,Terminal and
Navigation Systems to handle Boeing 737 or Airbus 310
class aircraft
> Airport subventions – the airport should be designated
a Public Service Obligation (PSO) designation for the
Waterford-Dublin route. Alternatively the airport itself
should receive a subvention to address the major
imbalance that currently exists between the South East
and other regional airports.
3.3 Create a University of
the South East
The region must prioritise education as a driver of
knowledge creation and as a means of transition to a
knowledge-based economy.The availability of fourth level
education structures is paramount to stimulating economic
activity and attracting sustainable inward investment.This
can best be achieved through the creation of a University of
the South East. A number of reports on the region
including the Regional Planning Guidelines have already
called for the creation of a University of the South East.29
A University of the South East would provide a focus that
could integrate all regional players and enhance specific
competencies within each county.
In addition to creating economic development and
attracting inward investment the creation of a University
would have the additional effects of:
> Attracting research funding and investment
> Stimulating participation in higher education
> Increasing the availability of researchers to the region
and attracting high quality international researchers into
the region
> Increase opportunity for life long learning
> Providing for greater cooperation between education
and industry in the field of research, development and
innovation
> Achieving the objectives set out in Ahead of the Curve by
increasing the knowledge base of the region
> Providing for an increase of students in the region and
provide an opportunity for students to remain in the
region to study.
The role of a University in creating a centre for social and
cultural development is a critical factor in creating a quality
of life environment in the region.The University would
provide a base to foster and develop a regional cultural
identity through physical and intellectual provision.
The importance of universities as social infrastructure is
evident throughout Europe.
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23. 23
3.4 Invest in Life Long
Learning
A knowledge economy is characterised by an ongoing
commitment to life long learning through the continuous
updating of skills and knowledge. To achieve this objective
the region needs both the availability of appropriate
opportunities for life long learners and the culture and
commitment of engaging in life long learning activities.
This requires that:
1 Up-skilling programmes are fostered through state
agencies, public enterprise, the proposed University, the
Institutes of Technology,VEC’s and other educational
providers servicing the region.The importance of
keeping management skills within the region at the
highest levels should be acknowledged through the
fostering of ongoing professional development for all
managers. The South East should build a reputation for
its commitment to management development.
2 Promotion and further development of educational
retraining programmes available for unemployed, back
to work, and those in employment.
3 An integrated approach to increasing numbers of
people training in innovation and entrepreneurship
should be fostered.There is an opportunity to harness
the expertise of retired business executives to mentor
emerging businesses in the region.
4 The Chambers of Commerce should consider creating a
'learning network' for members that allow firms the
opportunity of sharing skills and competencies. The
Enterprise Strategy Report recognised the importance of
building competencies in sales and marketing and
research and these areas should constitute the
cornerstone of the Chamber's learning network.
3.5 Develop a Sustainable
Environment
The economic growth in the South East since the mid 1990s
has placed growing pressures on the environment, similar
to those being felt by the rest of the world.Today we are:
> using more energy than ever before
> producing more waste than ever before
> our water quality, biodiversity and natural resources are
being threatened.
> we have ever-increasing greenhouse gas emissions that
cause climate change
As recommended in the report ‘Making Ireland’s
Development Sustainable’we
“can have both a dynamic economy and a high quality
environment. In fact we must have both.In the long
run,economic activity is undermined by inadequate
environmental protection; in turn,a healthy economy
provides the resources with which to build and maintain
high environmental quality. But to achieve both these
objectives we have to do better in the coming decade.”
The Environmental Protection Agency and Teagasc have
their headquarters situated in the region; therefore the
South East should be leading the field in terms of
protecting the environment. We should also build on the
Teagasc agricultural and rural centres of excellence doing
research & development at Johnstown Castle in Wexford
and Oak Park in Carlow. We should target our policy to
protect three of our basic resources i.e. water, land and
energy. The following recommendations are identified in
the Regional Planning Guidelines:30
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30 SERA - Regional Planning Guidelines - Implementing the National Spatial Strategy (2004)
31 Protocol to Abate Acidification, Eutrophication and Ground-level Ozone
(http://www.unece.org/env/lrtap/multi_h1.htm)
24. 24
3.5 Develop a Sustainable
Environment – Continued
Water Aspects:
> Implement conservation projects on water supply
systems
> Provide increased wastewater collection treatment
capacity in the region
> Develop marine leisure facilities that are suitable to the
environment
> Develop a regional integrated coastline zone
management plan
Land Aspects:
> Increase landfill capacity in the region
> Implement reduction, reuse and recycling targets as
identified in the Joint Waste Management Plan
> Implement an integrated thermal and biological waste
management treatment facility by 2009
> Implement the National Biodiversity Plan (fertile soils,
foods & clean water)
> Protect natural heritage sites designated in National and
European legislation
> Seek to preserve and protect built heritage (all features
built by man in the environment, including
archaeological sites, buildings and other structures) and
to encourage sympathetic re-use and/or development
> Sustainable development of coastland and upland areas
in the region for recreational and amenity purposes.
> Provide quality public open spaces in built up areas for
both passive and active recreation.
Energy Aspects:
> Encourage the development of renewable energy
sources; e.g. hydro, solar, geothermal & energy crops
> Limit the emissions of greenhouse gases
> Develop wind energy in upland and coastal areas
> Extend the gas pipeline network to Wexford town and
Dungarvan
> Encourage energy conservation by all users
As recommended by the report 'Making Ireland's
Development Sustainable' we should break the link
between economic growth and damage to the
environment. The region's local businesses should be
encouraged to join in this work. Business in the region
should be aware of the EU directives on air emissions and
the Gothenburg Protocol. A special challenge presents
itself in relation to the coastline protection of Wexford
urban areas and the management of the inland flood plains
at Kilkenny City and Clonmel.The taskforce recommends
that the South East lead the country in developing a
sustainable environment for future generations.
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25. 25
3.6 Develop and Promote
Leisure Opportunities
Ireland recently came first out of 111 countries in the World
quality-of-life index for 2005 as developed by the
Economist Intelligence Unit.32
The South East Region has
the necessary resources to lead the way on many of the fac-
tors used to set the index, such as health, freedom, unem-
ployment, family life, climate, political stability and security,
gender equality, and family and community life.
People and investors are attracted to cities and larger
towns, where there is a vibrant social and cultural life,
coupled with a wide range of entertainment and amenity
facilities.The South East Region has a wide range of leisure
infrastructure but many of these are not promoted outside
of the region.There is also an opportunity to further
develop existing activities and create new ones in the
region such as:
> Develop a major heritage tourism product for the region
capitalising on the archaeological and architectural
richness from the Viking, Medieval and Georgian periods
of its past
> Promote the South East as a retirement friendly region
with its warmer climate, healthcare infrastructure and
quality of life amenities
> Capitalise on the beautiful landscape – develop and
promote coastal and upland walkways, expand
watersport activities
> Develop the food sector - organic centres, country food
markets and gourmet restaurants
> Build on the Irish linguistic heritage in the Ring area
> Develop world-class conference facilities.
south east
a g e n d a32 The World in 2005, The Economist Newspaper Limited (www.economist.com/theworldin/)
26. 26
south east
a g e n d a
4.0 SEA 2020 – The South East
Business Plan
The South East Agenda taskforce identified six key economic priorities for the South East
Region that will help realise Vision 2020.
1 Improve transportation access within Ireland
2 Develop International transportation linkages
3 Create a University of the South East
4 Invest in lifelong learning
5 Develop a sustainable environment
6 Develop and promote leisure opportunities
In order to deliver the South East Agenda 2020, the
taskforce recommend that the South East Chambers
commission an integrated South East Business Plan. The
business case for each chamber city and town in the region
should be developed that outlines the key actions and
investments over the next 15 years that will contribute to
the key economic priorities identified in this report being
addressed.
The South East Business Plan should include the following:
> Where each city/town can expect to be, in development
terms by 2020
> The forecasts of future population, housing provision
and employment creation
> Key transport and land use proposals
> Investment priorities for National & local government
and the private sector for each of the cities and towns
> Identification of the South East Brand
> Implementation of the South East Business Plan
(marketing, partnerships, funding, monitoring)
The South East Agenda taskforce recommend that a
Steering Group be put in place to oversee the
development of the Business Plan.The steering group
should comprise of representatives from the South East
Chambers, the regional higher education providers, the
regional development agencies (IDA, Enterprise Ireland and
South East Tourism) and the City & County Managers
Association. An appropriate budget should be given to
develop the plan and it should be developed over a
realistic timeframe.
The deliverables of the report should include an initiation
report agreed with the Steering Group to provide an overall
organisation framework and timetable for progressing and
finalising the Business Plan - to identify relevant data
sources and data collection methods and to establish
milestones for the preparation and delivery of the Business
Plan. An interim report should be presented to the Steering
Group on progress at the mid-point of the project and
outlining the framework for the final Business Plan. The
final report should be presented to the Steering Group on
completion of the South East Business Plan
27. 27
Appendix I South East Chambers of Commerce
South East Chambers is an umbrella body within which the
Chambers of Commerce in the South East Region
collaborate on regional issues.The members of South East
Chambers are affiliated to the Chambers of Commerce of
Ireland and they are the chambers of Carlow, Clonmel,
Dungarvan & West Waterford, Enniscorthy, Gorey, Kilkenny,
New Ross,Waterford and Wexford.
Each Chamber of Commerce works to represent the
interests of its members on a local level.The Chambers also
provide other services, such as business and local
information and events and networking opportunities for
its members. South East Chambers was created when the
Chambers recognised that while priorities can vary in the
different localities, the region needs to speak louder and in
a unified approach on key issues. South East Chambers
works together to lobby more effectively on certain issues
affecting businesses in the region, such as regional
infrastructure, higher education, tourism, waster
management, SME development, arts & culture and the
overall economic prosperity of the region.
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Chamber CEO/Admin President
Carlow Jacqui McNabb Mary O'Connell
www.carlowchamber.com
Clonmel Elaine McGowan Walter Heneghan
www.clonmel.ie
Dungarvan & West Waterford Vincent M. Quirke Ann Marie Rossiter
www.dungarvanchamber.com
Enniscorthy Eamon Buttle
www.enniscorthychamber.ie
Gorey Peter Nordstrum
www.goreychamber.com
Kilkenny Alison McGrath Mike Nolan
www.kilkennychamber.ie
New Ross Teresa Delaney Gerry Murtagh
www.newrosschamber.ie
Waterford Frank O'Donoghue Liam Fennelly
www.waterfordchamber.ie
Wexford Emer Lovett Eamonn Murphy
www.wexfordchamber.ie
The other nominees on the South East Chambers committee are:
Carlow Michael Moriarty (Secretary), Martin Meagher (member)
Gorey Pat Roche (member)
New Ross Ernest Levingstone (Treasurer)
Waterford Joe Kenny (Chairman), Joe Palmer (member)
Wexford Ursula Sinnott (member)
28. 28
Appendix II South East Agenda Taskforce
Chairperson
Úna Parsons Industry Director,The Institution of Engineers of Ireland
Director,Waterford Chamber of Commerce
Chamber Representatives
Leo Butler Electronics and Software Engineer,T.Butler Engineering Ltd
Director, Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Declan Byrne Proprietor, Kavanagh Sports
Vice President, Clonmel Chamber of Commerce
Frank Keane Managing Director, Rosslare Ship Repairs Ltd
Director,Wexford Chamber of Industry & Commerce
Ernest Levingstone E.W. Levingstone & Co. Accountants / Registered Auditors
Past President, New Ross Chamber of Commerce
Pat Roche Director, Arkman Engineering
Committee Member, Gorey Chamber of Industry & Commerce
Specialist Advisors
Derek O’Byrne Head of Strategic Planning,Waterford Institute of Technology
Derry O’Sullivan Regional Director, Roadstone South East
Names in italics are the report-writing working group
Taskforce Administration /
Research Support
Karen Bunyan Independent research support
Siobhán MacAuliffe Executive Assistant,Waterford Chamber of Commerce
Frank O’Donoghue CEO,Waterford Chamber of Commerce
16 South East Annual Guidebook
17 Guide to Meeting & Conference Facilities in Ireland’s South East, South East Tourism,
2002
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29. 29
Appendix III Driving the South East Agenda
Appendix III Regional Conference
PROGRAMME
8.30 Welcome
Liam Fennelly
Conference Chairman
8.35 Keynote Address
Minister Martin Cullen TD
Minister of Transport
9.00 Progress on implementation of the National
Spatial Strategy
Niall Cussen, Senior Planning Adviser, Department
of Enterprise Trade & Employment
9.20 National road developments in the South East
Michael Egan
Head of Corporate Affairs,
National Roads Authority
9.40 Drivers of regional development
Dr. Edward M.Walsh
Founding President of UL
10.10 Panel discussion
10.30 Break
11.00 Progress on the South East Waste
Management Plan
Eamon Timoney
Environmental Engineer and Scientific Consultant,
Fehily Timoney & Co
11.20 Developing a business in the South East
Liam Griffin
Managing Director, Griffin Hotel Group
11.40 Promoting and branding a region
Anthony Foley
Senior Researcher,Waterford Institute of
Technology
12.00 Developing a regional broadband strategy
Mike Buhagier
Head of Marketing, BT Retail's Government
Directorate in the UK
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This important half-day Regional
Conference will focus the attention of
everybody in business and in
positions of influence in the South East
moving forward together to achieve
greater prosperity for all.
The plans are in place that should
create unprecedented business
opportunities – we have got to bring
them to fruition,or be left behind.
Liam Fennelly
Conference Chairman
President,Waterford Chamber
of Commerce
30. 30
Appendix IV Bibliography
National Publications:
A&L Goodbody Consulting (July 2004), Public Infrastructure in
Ireland - Projects and Prospects,Dublin
Bacon & Associates, Peter (July 2002), Strategic Review & Outlook for
Waste Management Capacity and the Impact on the Irish Economy
Central Statistics Office (2002), Census of Population
Central Statistics Office (2004), Quarterly National Household Survey
- Quarter 4 2004
Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources (2005),
Ports Policy Statement 2005,Government Publications Office,Dublin
Department of Education (2003), Statistics 2002/3
Department of Environment and Local Government (2002),
National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020,- People,Places and Potential,
Government Publications Office,Dublin
Department of the Environment and Local Government (2002),
Making Ireland's Development Sustainable - Review,Assessment and
Future Action,Government Publications Office,Dublin
Enterprise Strategy Group (2004), Ahead of the Curve - Ireland's Place
in the Global Economy,Government Publications Office,Dublin
Forfás (2003), Employment Survey 2003
Higher Educations Authority (2002), First Destinations Report 2002
National Competitiveness Council (September 2004),
The Competitiveness Challenge 2004,Forfás,Dublin
National Development Plan (2000), Ireland: National Development
Plan 2000-2006,Government Publications Office,Dublin
The Irish Academy of Engineering (2004), A Vision of Transport in
Ireland in 2050,Dublin
Regional & County Publications:
Arkman (2003), Enterprise Centre Feasibility Study,Gorey Chamber of
Industry & Commerce,Gorey
Atkins (2001), Cork Area Strategic Plan (CASP) 2001-2020,Cork City
Council & Cork County Council,Cork
Atkins (2001), Waterford Planning Land Use & Transportation Study
(PLUTS),Waterford City Council,Waterford
Bacon & Associates, Peter (May 1999), County Wexford: A Strategy for
Economic Development,Wexford County Council
Buhagiar, Mike (January 2005), Presentation: Switching on the South
East - Developing a Regional Broadband Strategy,Driving the South
East Agenda Regional Conference,Waterford
Burke Consulting, Raymond and Gallagher, Mary (April 2005),
Traffic Study for the I-Sea.com Project,Irish Exporters Association
Business Insight (January 2000), Investing in Kilkenny - An Economic
Analysis,Kilkenny Industrial Development Company (KIDCo),Kilkenny
Carlow Development Plan (2000), Carlow 2000-2012 Strategy,Carlow
Carlow Local Authorities (2005), We have a Mission...,Carlow
Cussen, Niall (January 2005), Presentation: Implementation of the
National Spatial Strategy - Update on Progress Issues for the South
East,Driving the South East Agenda Regional Conference,Waterford
Egan, Mike (January 2005), Presentation: National Roads
Development in the South East,Driving the South East Agenda
Regional Conference, Waterford
Fáilte Ireland (2003), Tourism to South East - Fact Sheet
Foley, Anthony (January 2005), Presentation: Promoting and
Branding a Region,Driving the South East Agenda Regional
Conference,Waterford
Griffin, Liam (January 2005), Presentation: Developing a business
in the South East,Driving the South East Agenda Regional
Conference,Waterford
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31. 31
Appendix IV Bibliography [continued]
Galway Chamber of Commerce & Industry (2001), Galway 2010 @
the Leading Edge - Galway Chamber's Policy Document for the
development of Galway City and County to 2010,Galway
IBEC South East (2005), It's time for action - Infrastructure Strategy for
the South East Region,IBEC,Waterford
Kilkenny County Development Board (2002), Kilkenny 2002-2012 - A
Strategy for Economic,Social and Cultural Development,Kilkenny
McDonald, Frank (11/11/2004), Waterford’s border issue still alive,
Irish Times Newspaper - Regional Capitals - Part 4, Dublin
MRPA Consultants Ltd (January 2003), The N9 Motorway - the key to
unlocking a regional gateway,Waterford Chamber of Commerce,
Waterford
O'Toole, Dr.Tom (29/10/2004), Regions need to work for themselves -
dependence on central government for resources stalls real
development, Irish Times Newspaper - Comment, Dublin
Roche, Barry (25/11/2004), Gateway plan 'no threat' to Dublin,
Irish Times Newspaper - Southern Correspondent, Dublin
South East Regional Authority (2004), Regional Planning Guidelines -
Implementing the National Spatial Strategy,Clonmel
South East Regional Authority (January 2005), Programme of work
in respect of year ending 31st December,2005,Clonmel
South East Regional Authority (July 2001), South East Regional
Information Society Strategy and Action Plan,Clonmel
South East Regional Authority (2002), South East Regional Passenger
Transport Strategy,Clonmel
South East Regional Authority (2004), Draft South East Employment
Development Strategy, Clonmel
South East Regional Authority (2004), Joint Waste Management Plan
for the South East Region,Clonmel
South East Regional Tourism Authority (2005), Ireland South East
Annual Guidebook 2005,Waterford
South East Tourism (Summer 2002), Guide to Meeting & Conference
Facilities in Ireland's South East,Waterford
South East Tourism (2005), South East Ireland Activity & Leisure
Guidebook 2005,Waterford
South East Tourism (2005), Festivals & Events and What's On in
Ireland South East 2005 - Year of the Tall Ships,Waterford
South Tipperary County Development Board (2002), South
Tipperary County Strategy for Economic,Social and Cultural
Development,Clonmel
Strategy Waterford Task Force (2002), Strategy Waterford - Vision
2011,linking Waterford and its Partners,Waterford
Timoney, Eamon (January 2005), Presentation: Progress on the Joint
Waste Management Plan of the South East,Driving the South East
Agenda Regional Conference, Waterford
Walsh, Edward M (January 2005), Presentation: Drivers of Regional
Development,Driving the South East Agenda Regional Conference,
Waterford
Waterford Chamber of Commerce (2002), USE - University of the
South-East - The Proposition - upgrading Waterford Institute of
Technology to the status of a University,Waterford
Waterford City Development Board (2002), Strategy for Economic,
Social and Cultural Development of Waterford City 2002-2012,
Waterford
Waterford County Development Board (2002), Waterford County - A
monument of the Future - Waterford County Strategy for the
Economic,Social and Cultural development 2002-2012,Waterford.
Waterford County Development Board, County Waterford Rural
Transport Audit,Waterford
Waterford Institute of Technology (2003), WIT Strategic Plan
2003-2006,Waterford
Wexford County Development Board (revised 2004),
Remodelling the Model County - Strategy for the Economic Social &
Cultural development of County Wexford 2002-2012,Wexford
Wexford Enterprise Initiative, Promoting Investment in County
Wexford - interactive CD-ROM,Wexford
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32. Designed by TOTEM
www.totem.ie
South East Chambers
» Carlow
» Clonmel
» Dungarvan & West Waterford
» Enniscorthy
» Gorey
» Kilkenny
» New Ross
» Waterford
» Wexford
www.southeastchambers.ie
