Regional Competitiveness, Innovation and the South East

The National Competitiveness & Productivity Council (NCPC), SETU and the 5 Chambers of Commerce in the South East met 2nd April and collaborated on a seminar on ‘Regional Competitiveness, Innovation and the South East’.

The event – which took place in SETU Arena in Waterford – was Chaired by Dr Frances Ruane, Chairperson of the NCPC and featured a presentation by Dr Dermot Coates and a lively panel discussion with key industry leaders from the South East.

This was an opportunity for organisations and businesses from the region to get insight into the work of the NCPC and to hear the latest economic data that drives the strategy of the NCPC. It was also a chance for the NCPC to hear, first hand, the challenges to competitiveness that businesses, chambers and support agencies are seeing in the region.

This proactive approach to identifying challenges and discussing barriers to economic growth is key – while also acknowledging strengths and progress.

Key takeaways from the session included:
Ireland is tracking well internationally in terms of competitiveness – but we cannot afford to get complacent, particularly in light of the current global trade challenges
Different regions face different challenges to competitiveness – but lack of infrastructure is a key issue nationally
There are opportunities that as a country we need to tap into quickly if we are not to fall behind – in the areas of green energy production and AI
Lack of regional investment, slow rates of decision making on investment by government, risk aversion to investment by government, red tape and lack of cross department cohesion are all impacting businesses’ ability to be more competitive
As a region the South East is very cohesive. Collaboration in the region is vital – together we are stronger.