New business chief optimistic for region

THE PROTECTION of existing jobs, stimulation of investment, an ending to the structure of three local authorities governing the urban area of Limerick and the development of an international logistics hub that would become a major driver of employment in the future, are priority issues for the incoming president of Limerick Chamber, Harry Fehilly, who succeeds outgoing president, Sean Lally.

Mr Fehilly is managing partner of Holmes O’Malley Sexton.

Highlighting the need to focus on developing a local industry that can become a world leader, he pointed to the region’s high level of expertise in the area of logistics.

“With the deep sea port at Shannon Estuary and the Customs Pre-Clearance at Shannon Airport, there is huge potential for this area to become a key international logistics hub, which would be a major driver of employment in the future,” he said.

The new business sector leader said it is imperative to build a competitive city, road infrastructure projects, Shannon Airport and an innovative economy.

“Our geography gives us a unique advantage in the area of renewable energy production – we have an abundance of tidal wind, wave and biomass energy resources and it’s imperative that we exploit this advantage to its fullest”.

Other priority issues include the completion of the N 18 to Galway and Shannon Airport, as a key driver of investment to the region.