Minister for Small Business Turns Sod on Leitrim Technology Enterprise Centre
November 2012
Minister for Small Business, John Perry TD, recently ‘turned the sod’ to mark the commencement of the construction of a new €1.2 million Technology Enterprise Centre in Carrick on Shannon. The Technology Enterprise Centre includes the development of a 7,500 sq. ft. state of the art building which will provide a purpose built, technology focused business environment for 14 new and expanding businesses and has the potential to create up to 70 new jobs for the area.
The new centre is part of the Innovation Enterprise Programme (IEP), which is a cross-border initiative between Omagh District Council, Leitrim County Enterprise Board, Leitrim County Council, Omagh Enterprise Company and led by the Irish Central Border Area Network (ICBAN). The IEP has received nearly £2.3 million of financial assistance from the European Union’s INTERREG IVA Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The aim of the project is to support the creation and development of innovative technology-oriented businesses within the region. The Technology Enterprise Centre is also part-funded by Enterprise Ireland under the Community Enterprise Scheme.
Minister for Small Business, John Perry TD, expressed his support for the Programme saying; “I warmly welcome this development, as I believe that a project such as this will create greater business links and the development of networks which will benefit the region. It is important that we have projects like these that are relevant to business needs and are accessible and tailored to specific regions.”
Speaking at the event, Jackie Maguire, Chairperson of Leitrim County Enterprise Fund said “I am delighted to welcome Minister Perry to mark the start of construction of the new Technology Enterprise Centre. This is a key development for the region and will play a significant role in strengthening the local economy by generating both turnover and high quality employment for the area.”
Commenting on the new development, Joan Mullen, Assistant Regional Development Executive with Enterprise Ireland said ““Enterprise Ireland, along with the other partners, is delighted to be involved with the establishment of a new Technology Centre in Carrick-on-Shannon. It is hoped that this will create the environment and lead to an increase in new start up companies which will grow and increase employment for the benefit of Carrick-on-Shannon and its environs.”
Speaking on behalf of ICBAN; Cllr David Alcorn said; “The sod turning ceremony marks the official start of construction works here in Carrick on Shannon of this exciting new Technology Enterprise Centre. ICBAN is delighted to be the Lead Partner for the Innovative Enterprise Programme which will help develop key innovative businesses within the region”.
For further information on the Technology Enterprise Centre, please contact Hilary McPartland, Innovation Officer, Leitrim County Enterprise Fund on 071-96 20450 or by e-mail at hilary@leitrimenterprise.ie.
