COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, January 14, 2013

QUESTION NO. 6

QUESTION: Councillor W. Lavelle

To ask the Manager to provide a detailed update on plans for establishment of a South Dublin Local Enterprise Office, the likely locations, activities and governance structures of the proposed offices; and to further provide details on the current and capital funding likely to be available for the office and initiatives under its remit?

REPLY:

At national level discussions are ongoing in relation to the dissolution if the CEBs. These discussions will provide clarity on funding and mechanisms for the approval of grants in the future.

The Economic Strategy for the County, (as discussed with the SPC & CPG and agreed at the December Council meeting), identified as a key supporting initiative the development of the Local Enterprise Office (LEO). This will bring together the range of activities being carried out by state actors, such as the Council and the County Enterprise boards, to support local enterprise.  The LEO under the auspices of the Council will act as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for small and micro business in the County. They will provide a range of services such as advice, information on accessing public procurement, access to supports and funding and support for the progression of high growth companies to appropriate Enterprise Ireland supports. Work is ongoing on putting in place the LEO framework and building on the South Dublin County Enterprise board being located in County Hall.

A Working Group of the Economic Development SPC have commenced work on an Action Plan flowing from the Strategy, (also agreed at December Council).  Key actions in relation to the LEO include :

·        Develop the Local Enterprise Office to act as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for advice and support for business in the County.

·        Help to influence consumer and business confidence. 

·        Encourage local spending and local business. 

·        Provide assistance for SMEs with tendering and procurement processes. 

·        Raise awareness and promote cooperation between relevant agencies to combat the shadow economy. 

·        Provide support to the retail sector. 

·        Work towards reducing the costs of doing business. 

·        Provide assistance to businesses with ICT and social media, particularly utilising the skills and information available within the local authority. 

·        Build on the existing good working relationship between the Council and the Chamber.