Developing the South-East

A chara, - Mark McLaughlin (September 14th) argues that, to promote the social and economic development of the South-East, a …

A chara, - Mark McLaughlin (September 14th) argues that, to promote the social and economic development of the South-East, a university must be located in Waterford and jobs must be directed to that city.

A chara, - Mark McLaughlin (September 14th) argues that, to promote the social and economic development of the South-East, a university must be located in Waterford and jobs must be directed to that city.

Waterford is a wonderful city and has changed enormously over the past decade but the South-East needs an effective approach to regional development rather than just concentration on its most populous settlement.

The IDA's neglect of the South-East generally is highlighted by the fact that, in the three years to the end of 2004, it assisted in the creation of a net total of four new jobs in Co Wexford.

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The need for a University in the South-East can no longer be disputed but perhaps a multi-campus option, including Carlow IT and the campuses in counties Kilkenny and Wexford, could be explored (along the lines of the University of Ulster in the North).

During the summer, the chambers of commerce in the South-East region set out a very effective vision for the Carlow/Kilkenny/South Tipperary/Waterford/Wexford areas for 2020. It echoed many of the recommendations of reports on the region in previous years. Oireachtas members of all parties in the region must now unite to ensure those recommendations are finally realised. - Is mise,

Cllr MALCOLM BYRNE, Fianna Fáil, The Chase, Gorey, Co Wexford.