Economic Forum Breakfast Meeting

Wexford County Council in partnership with Wexford Chamber hosted a very successful Economic Forum in the Talbot Hotel on the 4th November 2009.   The   forum was very well attended with over 150 people from Wexford’s business community and local government, which focused on the theme of “Positioning Wexford for the Future”.  Attendees heard from a number of keynote speakers who echoed sentiments of collaboration, harvesting new ideas and the importance of the links between business and culture.

The forum was opened by the Chairman of Wexford County Council –Cllr. Anna Fenlon and the Co. Manager Eddie Breen who highlighted the key strategic infrastructure that has been secured to support economic development in the County.   The Chairman stated that in these challenging times it was important for everyone to think smarter and work smarter.
 Madeleine Quirke, President, Wexford Chamber highlighted that the Economic Forum served to focus attendees on resources, key issues and the future of Wexford. This type of forward planning will highlight areas for future development, ultimately strengthening Wexford as a place to do business.

The two keynote speakers on the day gave excellent presentations which stimulated discussion in the thematic workshops.   Julie O’ Neill, former Secretary General of the Department of Transport spoke about ‘Challenges and opportunities for Wexford in the downturn’. Julie called on attendees to position Ireland as an ‘Innovation Island’ developing the products and services of tomorrow. Patrick Manley, CEO, Zurich Insurance Ireland explored ‘Wexford: A place to do business, its location, people, strengths and opportunities.’ During his address, Patrick stated Wexford is a confident town and has untapped potential to grow even in these difficult times.

Forum attendees participated in a range of sector specific workshops, where key issues were discussed. Findings from each of the workshops will be used to create a strategic action plan for Wexford which will help future development and inform economic development policies.   The thematic areas included:

• Culture, Sport & Tourism
• SMART Economy & Logistics
• Green Technology
• Food Technology
• Sustainable Construction
• Retail
• Financial Services

The Economic and Social Development Strategic Policy Committee will meet this week to review the preliminary findings and agree the format for where we go from here.  It is important to harness the positive contribution, debate and partnership achieved on the day between the public and the private sector.  The report findings will also feed into the economic subcommittee of the County Development Board.