Cathaoirleach and Chair of CDB Councillor Jim McGarry sees transport infrastructure as the key to future growth

I have served the people of Sligo for 21 years as a public representative, and during that time have had the honour of being elected as both Mayor and Cathaoirleach. From my experience, I feel Sligo city and county are ideally placed to sustain the encouraging rate of progress of recent years. I also believe we can continue to develop and promote Sligo as a viable destination for inward investment, an objective that is predicated on a number of critical factors.

Infrastructure

An issue that I address in every available forum is our transport infrastructure. Our peripheral location means Sligo has limited access to international markets, a problem which can be addressed by encouraging international carriers to recognise the strong potential of Knock Airport.

The infrastructural deficit is more apparent in terms of our roads network. The rationale behind the National Spatial Strategy was to support a better balance of activity and development between areas experiencing rapid development and areas that are economically underutilised. The designation of BMW ëgatewaysí is aimed at creating an alternative ëeconomic corridorí to counterbalance development along the East coast.

Integrated approach

The Sligo County Development Board has a pivotal role to play in fostering an integrated approach to public sector activity at local level. I see my role as Chairman of the Board as primarily to promote Sligo as a viable destination for new business, and in 2007 our Board will work hard to ensure this will translate into sustainable jobs for Sligo and the northwest.

The County Development Board will continue to be an active and vibrant presence in our community. There are many areas where we can make a real difference, from economic regeneration to regional infrastructure to social inclusion. I anticipate a very busy and challenging 2007, and I know my colleagues on the board are committed and focused to progressing our important agenda.

Local democracy

The role of a local public representative lies at the heart of local democracy. For many, the county or borough councillor is a personís first point of contact with their local authority, and I firmly believe that Sligo Borough Council and Sligo County Council has served the people well. I will work closely with my colleagues in both chambers to ensure Sligo continues to prosper and thrive in 2007.

To Sligo people everywhere, at home and abroad, I hope you have an enjoyable Christmas and New Year.

Councillor Jim McGarry
Cathaoirleach

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