COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

MOTION NO. 25

MOTION: Councillor G. O'Connell

That the Manager gives a report on progress to date across Palmerston and Lucan of the excellent Intellectual Enterprise Zone (IEZ) initiative and that a discussion take place on how this Area Committee can be of practical assistance in furthering the ideals and concept of the IEZ.

REPORT:

The IE Network piloted in South Dublin as the Intellectual Enterprise Zone was relaunched as a Regional Initiative on 18th November 2010.  It was born out of the post-Celtic Tiger era which saw the emergence of the non-traditional unemployed grouping of high-skilled / professionals.  There are currently c 1,100 members across the Region.

Mr Jim Nolan, IE Network Manager works closely with staff in South Dublin and Ms Andrea Carroll in the Chamber on developing the network in the County.  Jim has met with Library Staff to discuss the future use of the Lucan Library in developing the initiative in the Lucan area. The main presentation/training room is ideal as a room for the IE Network, and using the facilities there it is planned to hold a Network and coffee morning there soon.

The Library can further help the IE Network, publicising the planned events within the library and the displaying of posters (already available) and brochures, which are being oriented at the moment.  Dates for holding an information morning/afternoon in the Library are being examined and that event will be consolidated with other information sessions across the whole county. Any assistance that the elected members of the Committee can give in terms of awareness of the Network and promotion of such events would be appreciated.

A breakdown of IE Network members in the Lucan/Palmerston area is not available but could be estimated at approx. no of 30-40 which would represent 10-15% of the overall members in the South Dublin Region.