Ireland has the potential to become a renewable powerhouse
The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner held this evening celebrated the collaborative spirit between Cork and Dublin and the importance of this synergy to the success of Ireland Inc. Held in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, the keynote was delivered by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar T.D. to more than 600 people from across Ireland’s business, political and diplomatic landscape.
In his keynote address, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar T.D. said “The Government and I strongly believe that more balanced regional development is good for the country as whole. Cork, as a city-region, has a population approaching six hundred thousand people which is similar to that of Galway, Limerick and Waterford combined. Cork City and County can lead the way with Government in generating economic and population growth. We will be there to ensure it succeeds through increased investment in infrastructure like rail, roads, housing, school, hospitals, universities, energy and water.”
“Cork and Dublin, two vibrant urban hubs nestled within our nation's thriving economic landscape, showcase a remarkable synergy. One that resonates on the global stage. We have consistently demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to attract substantial foreign direct investment to our island and equally to maintain an economic environment that can serve as a launchpad for Irish private enterprises eager to scale and make their mark on the international stage,” said Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President.
Speaking at the event Frank O’Keeffe, Managing Partner EY Ireland said “For Ireland to thrive both Cork and Dublin need to thrive individually and collectively. That happens when we make the most of our shared gifts. We are fortunate in this country to have brilliant hard-working people from an increasingly diverse range of backgrounds as well as clusters of multinational companies and entrepreneurs from across a range of critical sectors. Coupled with a history of stable government which recognises the importance of being at the heart of the international community, in so many ways we have so much to be optimistic about as we look to the future together.”
Mr Murray spoke positively about the future for Cork and Ireland to harness the opportunity to develop economically and socially, by ensuring private ambition is supported to enhance our resilience and sustainable growth.
“Sitting in this enviable position on the edge of the Atlantic, we have the potential to emerge as a renewable energy powerhouse. Our commitment to delivering on this is critical to achieving energy security and future resilience. This year alone, we have seen many steps taken to enable the growth of the sector, with the launch of MARA (the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority), the first offshore wind auctions and increased activity in the solar landscape.”
"Paving the way for energy independence will not only enhance our appeal to investors but it will also elevate the quality of life in Ireland which ultimately will create a more secure legacy for the generations to come,” said Mr Murray.
