SDLP launches all-island economy plan

The SDLP has unveiled its blueprint for an all-Ireland economy, with plans to help address skills shortages, create a single corporation tax regime and tackle infrastructure deficits.

The party is also proposing to remove tax barriers on cross-border workers in an effort to improve the flow of labour throughout the island.

The party argued that the lack of recognition for qualifications in some areas was impeding the movement of skilled workers to the areas they were needed most.

Part of the SDLP's plan includes accelerating the opening of an all-Ireland energy market, and advocating the recognition of the island as a European Energy Zone to help reduce costs, meet targets and improve planning.

Speaking at the reception, the Taoiseach Mr Ahern said both sides of the border faced similar economic challenges, including greater competition from low-cost economies, the promotion of investment in R&D, the need to deliver quality health and education services and the need to build world-class infrastructure.

"We want the children of this country to grow up in peace and prosperity and with equal opportunity for all," he said. Mr Ahern also pressed home the importance of power-sharing in the North.

"Everyone who goes up for election knows that it is about power-sharing, support for policing and all within a time-frame of March 26th," he said.

Mr Ahern said it was crucial to look to the future. "As attitudes change in the North, so we must look up and appreciate what is happening. Now is the time to focus on Northern Ireland, not to look away.

"We particularly need to understand the Unionist people and build a new and durable relationship with them. We must be ready to play our part in building a better island, on the basis of respect for all."