Leading local and national business people were invited today (Friday) to join in the drive for further economic development and job creation in County Wicklow.

As part of its ongoing commitment to economic development, Wicklow County Council hosted the 2018 Breakfast Briefing and Workshop attended by key County Wicklow business stakeholders.

The theme of the event – held in the Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort – was: “What can Wicklow County Council, State Agencies and Business Leaders do to enhance business opportunities in the county”. 

Wicklow County Council Chief Executive, Mr Frank Curran, said: “I believe that County Wicklow’s unique attributes and proximity to the Dublin market, excellent quality of life, human capital, tourism, landscape, agriculture, marine and forestry resource makes it the best location in Ireland for Industry and Enterprise”, adding that “the Council looks forward to working in partnership with the Business Community to deliver on the key objectives discussed.” 

The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Edward Timmins, stated: “We are delighted with the level of engagement today.   It’s all about building relationships and we can tap into huge potential by working together.” 

He said that it was clear from today’s event that the business community needs a direct line into the Council as well as access to key decision makers. He encouraged more collaboration, communication and co-operation between the County Council, business and the wider community.

The morning began with a welcome address from Cllr Timmins.    Mr Curran then gave an overview of the economic role and vision for the future of the county followed by an address from Ms Rachel Doyle, Managing Director, Arboretum.

Wicklow County Council’s new Web Portal was previewed at the event. The Portal will play a key role in communicating the new “Wicklow” brand which encapsulates what Wicklow has to offer across multiple dimensions:  Living in Wicklow, Doing Business in Wicklow, Visiting Wicklow.

“We have responded to the feedback from the business community and provided a web-site which will act as our ‘shop window’ aimed at attracting investment to the county,” commented Mr Curran.

Guests then participated in a workshop on the key objectives chaired by MC for event, Mr Alan Shortt, Media Skills Ireland, after which presentations from the workshop were discussed.