Bannon Calls for Review of Development Contribution Scheme.

 

Longford/Westmeath (FG) James Bannon said today that he had requested the Minister for Environment Community & Local Government, Phil Hogan TD to review the development contribution scheme in county towns that don’t have Gateway or Hub status in order to make it more attractive for business to locate.

 

In the past the development contribution was paid primarily by the construction sector to cover roads, water and sewerage. Today this is not the case and local authorities have to manage their funding prudently. I am given to understand from the Minister that new guidelines will allow local authorities some degree of leeway in the utilisation of this development contribution particularly in assisting new or existing enterprises in their respective areas which in turn might help in job creation. An example of such support for local enterprises or new enterprises could be e.g. reduced development contribution rates or deferral of payments until such a time as the business is breaking even.  I would hope that such measures and initiatives might attract business to locate in the region of Longford/Westmeath.

 

In our community we are very fortunate to have a wealth of experienced, professional and educated people who have tremendous work skills and enthusiasm to offer to any employer.  I hope that the County Manager together with local councillors will give serious consideration to adopting support measures to attract potential employers to the area and to facilitate local employers who are endeavouring to survive in these harsh economic conditions he said.