DBEC Political Advisory Group welcomed to Dublin City University

DBEC Political Advisory Group welcomed to Dublin City University

The Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) Political Advisory Group met this morning in vibrant Dublin City University's Glasnevin Campus. High on the agenda was an update on the strategy and action plan agreed by the DBEC Partnership and details on actions now being taken forward.

The DBEC partnership is a local Government network formed by eight Councils and two universities located along the Dublin to Belfast Economic Corridor. The purpose of the Partnership is to play a vital role in driving forward economic growth and the overall competitiveness of the corridor.

The Councils represented include Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council; Belfast City Council; Dublin City Council; Fingal County Council; Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council; Louth County Council; Meath County Council; and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. The partnership also includes Dublin City University and Ulster University who collaborated to produce the first report on the Economic Corridor which highlighted the potential opportunities to arise from co- operation particularly in the areas of skills, infrastructure and research & development.

Councillor Pete Byrne, Chair of the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor Political Advisory Group said: “This morning's meeting provided a valuable opportunity for members to meet and review the agreed vision and ambition set for the DBEC Partnership. We have recognised the potential benefits that can be accumulated for the cross-border area as a result of a collaborative approach to progressing economic development opportunities. The Dublin to Belfast economic corridor is already an attractive and successful location for investment; working collaboratively presents a real opportunity to combine efforts and progress opportunities that drive investment, deliver against labour and skill requirements, addresses barriers to growth and advocates for enabling infrastructure necessary to strengthen connectivity and access to markets”.

President of Dublin City University, Professor Daire Keogh welcomed the opportunity to host the meeting of the political advisory group. Professor Keogh said “As an active collaboration between the local government and university sectors, the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor has the aim of driving regional growth and development and creating jobs and economic prosperity for its two million plus citizens. There are so many opportunities to continue our close collaboration and

support for DBEC and we are delighted to host this meeting of the Political Advisory Group on our Glasnevin Campus”.