|
The redevelopment of Cork's Docklands has the potential to
transform the city, but needs incentives similar to those
enjoyed in Dublin, Tom Parlon, director general of the Construction
Industry Federation said.
In a statement, Mr Parlon continued - "In September of last
year, Cork City Council sent a detailed submission to the
Government seeking development initiatives for the Cork Docklands,
which the CIF fully supports. The absence, however, of any
mention of the Cork Docklands Development in December's Budget
and the subsequent Finance Bill in February of this year represents
a missed opportunity for Cork.
"I will be meeting with CIF member companies from throughout
Cork City and County, who have a keen interest in this project.
Having seen the benefits of such initiatives with the development
of the Docklands in Dublin, there is a fantastic opportunity
for the Government to replicate the success achieved in Dublin,
here in Cork. In partnership with the Government, the Cork
Docklands can become a flagship project for Cork City Council
and I'll continue to make the case for specific development
initiatives in meetings with Government representatives and
officials.
"Back in November, the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern formally established
the Cork Docklands Development Forum, which is charged with
overseeing and driving the development of the Cork Docklands
area. While this is a most welcome development and certainly
a step in the right direction - which we, in the CIF, welcomed
- we are extremely disappointed that no member of CIF has
been appointed to it.
" This is all the more surprising as CIF member companies
will play a huge part in the construction of the Docklands
and would bring first-hand knowledge to the Forum, of what
is required."
|
