The future of Shannon Development could be in doubt under goverment plans to radically overhaul the public sector and cut back on state bodies.
The Mid-West’s regional development agency is on a long list of quangos to be reviewed under plans announced yesterday which also see the end of decentralisation for the Irish Aviation Authority and a review of Enterprise Ireland’s proposed relocation to Shannon.
The review will consider stripping Shannon Development of its Tourism remit in the Shannon region with the possiblity of handing over that role to Failte Ireland while it’s job creation responsibilites could also be in doubt in a second review to happen next year.
While questions have been raised about Shannon Development’s ability to bring jobs and tourists to the region in the current economic climate, local TD Timmy Dooley insists the agency is a much needed asset that has worked well for County Clare.