Local TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the Government endorsement of the valuable role which the Western Development Commission (WDC) plays in developing the economy of the West of Ireland.
Deputy Naughten said: “The WDC provides a service that supports existing employment as well as assists with the establishment of new employment in the region.
“As a member of the last Fine Gael Government led by John Bruton TD. which published the original plans for the Commission, I’m a strong supporter not only of the investment fund managed by the Commission to support local employment but also of the valuable research carried out by the Commission which has supported additional investment in the region
“The review and rationalisation of State agencies is paramount in the current economic climate. However, Fine Gael has done extensive work on the role, function and productivity of Government agencies and we have highlighted those which are an unnecessary waste of taxpayers’ money.
“There is plenty of scope for the Government to save money by abolishing redundant quangos without abolishing a valuable advocate and resource for supporting the development of the west.”
“This position has now been publicly endorsed by Minister Phil Hogan on behalf of the Government,” concluded Denis Naughten.