MIXED REACTION TO FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT JOBS INITIATIVE

Date Published: 17-Apr-2012

There’s been a mixed welcome for an initiative which aims to create jobs in Galway through foreign direct investment.

The government backed "Succeed in Ireland" scheme is led by private firm, Connect Ireland, to compliment the work of the IDA.

It was presented to councillors at their monthly meeting last evening.

Through a reward process small and medium sized companies would receive 1500 euro for each job created in Ireland subject to a minimum of 3 positions and a maximum of 100.

Mayor Hildegarde Naughton said it would develop an important link with the diaspora abroad while Acting City Manager Joe O’Neill praised the idea for the networking opportunities it provides.

However City Councillor Catherine Connolly described the venture as “daft” and said money should be made available to develop indigenous business instead.

Alan Gallagher of Connect Ireland says the initiative will save the government money and sell Galway and Ireland abroad.