Launch of Local Enterprise Office Offaly

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There was an upbeat and positive mood in the County Council building today, as the new Local Enterprise Office (LEO) was officially launched. Existing business owners, aspiring business people, County Council staff, Councillors and enterprise and development agencies all gathered in the Atrium for the event.

Minister Charles Flanagan, Department of Children and Youth Affairs officiated at the launch. He complimented the work undertaken to date by both Offaly County Council and the former Offaly County Enterprise Board. The Minister outlined how this initiative formed part of the Action Plan for Jobs, and that additional staff and funding was being provided to support the work of the Local Enterprise Office.

Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr Frank Moran stated that the LEO represents a new chapter in enterprise development in the County. It follows on from the good work of Offaly County Enterprise Board and will continue to provide those supports, along with a range of new services.

He noted that situating the LEO office in the County Council building will make it easier to pull together the resources of the County: for example, planning, roads, waste permits, heritage, community etc to respond to the needs of the individual. He commented that the LEO has the full support of Offaly County Council, Enterprise Ireland and all the relevant bodies.

Colette Byrne, new Chief Executive of Offaly County Council warmly welcomed the initiative. She commented that it was a natural next step on a journey with the bringing together of two sets of expertise and experience into one office, the Local Enterprise Office.  The LEO will provide a client focussed service where the needs of the entrepreneur are met in a “joined up” manner in one location.  She was certain that this will be a case of “the whole being stronger than the sum of the parts”.

Ms Byrne also commented on the new Innovation Centre which is now open for business. It is a welcome addition to the suite of Enterprise supports and facilities available. She encouraged people to spread the word about the Local Enterprise Office.

Orla Martin, Head of Local Enterprise, paid tribute to colleagues in Offaly County Council who helped with the move, integrating systems with the Local Authority systems. This enabled the LEO provide a seamless service to clients throughout the transition. 

Following the speeches, guests were invited to network and to view the new LEO offices.