Mayor of Sligo Councillor Tom McSharry feels continued economic growth will help our society tackle social exclusion

My term thus far as Mayor of Sligo has instilled in me a level of optimism and confidence regarding Sligo’s future, and this is founded on a number of key factors:

Economic growth

I firmly believe that Sligo City has the capacity to continue its current rate of economic growth. The Local Authorities work in close liaison with agencies such as the IDA and Chamber of Commerce, to ensure the conditions are right for inward investment. I also believe there is huge potential in e-commerce, and the roll-out of broadband can be the catalyst for continued growth in this area. I believe 2007 will see major strides made in this area, as people and businesses explore and exploit the potential of exciting new information technologies.

Role of local Authority

The role and remit of Local Authorities has changed dramatically over the years. While we continue to focus on delivering in the critical major service areas - housing, roads, water services - we have also become facilitators for change in a raft of other areas, from forward planning to promotion and protection of our environment. The partnership approach underpins these developments, and Sligo Local Authorities actively engage with the communities they serve, an aspect of our work which I expect to see further enhanced in 2007

Social inclusion

One of our key functions as a Local Authority is to focus resources towards areas most affected by social exclusion. I feel the only way we can make real progress is to engage meaningfully with the communities we serve, both in terms of the planning and delivery of various initiatives.

Sligo Borough Council has exciting plans for the development if recreational facilities in Cranmore and Cleveragh, and we hope to see these projects come to fruition in 2007. One of my most important honours as Mayor was to officially open the new playground in Cranmore, a project which came about because of the vibrant and committed community spirit in this area. Great credit is due to all concerned, and I feel this project will provide the impetus and encouragement for the continued development of Cranmore in 2007.

Consensus

The development and growth of Sligo is not the exclusive preserve of one agency, and Sligo Borough Council will continue to work closely with the communities and other agencies to ensure the current rate of progress is maintained. We all have a role to play - the education, tourism and business sectors, and the various communities, to ensure a co-ordinated and planned approach to delivering a successful future for our city. I am confident that in 2007 Sligo Borough Council can play a leading role in leading this agenda for the benefit of all our citizens.

I wish the people of Sligo a happy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year

Councillor Tom McSharry
Mayor