Small businesses in
Derry and Donegal can "sharpen their competitive
edge" with the support of a new cross-border
partnership.
Ireland North West – 'Making Business Happen' is a
collaboration between a number of agencies including
local authorities and local enterprise boards.
“Together we can help businesses to operate on both
sides of the border and to tackle issues such as
differences in currency, taxation and regulations,”
said the project's Barry Rooney who works with North
West Marketing in Derry.
His counterpart at Donegal County Enterprise Board,
Eileen Doherty, also works with entrepreneurs and
those who want to grow their existing business.
She said: “Looking across the border offers
expansion opportunities for small businesses in this
region. We can help them to make the most of these
opportunities and make them more competitive
internationally.”
The 'Making Business Happen' initiative also wants
to attract back into the region those who left and
gained new skills and experiences abroad.
The overall aim, however, is to increase
competitiveness and sustainability in the North
West, using this partnership approach to regional
economic development.
Mark Lusby, of Derry City Council, a partner in the
project added: “We need to work in partnership
across the border in this region for the long-term
benefit of business and the economy and we want to
develop the right structures and strategies for the
future.
“We acknowledge the challenges the region faces in
terms of employment, infrastructure and
peripherality. We also believe, however, that it is
time to move forward together on a more positive
basis using our strengths instead of being deterred
by these challenges.”
Meanwhile, Donegal County Council's Garry Martin
agreed: “We have a great track record of
cross-border co-operation between Derry and Donegal
and that key strength is being thrown behind this
new approach."
Run by the North West Economic Partnership, the new
initiative is part-financed by the European Union
through the Interreg IIIA Programme. If you are
interested in starting or developing your own
business call Barry Rooney on 02871 352693 or Eileen
Doherty on 074 9166735 If you are working away but
considering a return to the North West, call Aeidín
McCarter on 00353 74 9172497. |
