New Meath LEO will act as a hub for job creation – Doherty

Fine Gael Meath East, Regina Doherty, has said the new Meath Local Enterprise Office (LEO), which was opened in Navan yesterday (Tuesday) by the Minister for Small Business, John Perry TD, will act as a hub for local job creation.

“The Government is establishing LEOs in every local authority around the country to provide local businesses and start-ups with targeted supports to help them prosper and create jobs. They pull together national support and advice with local expertise to ensure businesses are given the best possible chance to succeed.

“Entrepreneurs are playing a crucial role in our jobs recovery; indeed two thirds of all new jobs are being created by start-ups. The Government wants to make sure that these job creators have access to all of the supports they need.

“Through the new LEO, Meath businesses will be able to access advice and support from a wide range of agencies, including Revenue, Social Protection, Microfinance Ireland, Credit Review Office, Skillnets, and the new Education and Training Boards.

“The number of people on the Live Register in Meath has fallen by almost 9% over the last 12 months. This is positive progress, but we still have a lot of work to do. I am confident that the new LEO in Navan will help local businesses to grow and create more jobs.

“The roll out of 31 LEOs nationwide was a key commitment of this year’s Action Plan for Jobs, which has a specific focus on boosting entrepreneurship.

“I would also like to encourage young Meath entrepreneurs to enter the search for Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur, which is open individuals aged 30 years and under. Winners at county level are eligible for investment in their business of up to €25,000, while the winners at national level can receive an additional investment of up to €50,000. Information and application forms can be found at www.ibye.ie .”

ENDS