Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor McGuinness has challenged the Taoiseach to turn support for Waterford Chamber’s new regional strategy into concrete action to deliver economic growth and investment for Waterford and the South East.

Speaking during Taoiseach’s Questions in the Dáil, Deputy McGuinness asked whether the Taoiseach had read Waterford & The South East 2075: A Regional Strategy for Prosperity & Connectivity, which sets out a vision for a €45 billion regional economy over the coming decades.

Deputy McGuinness said the challenge now was to ensure that the strategy translated into real investment and action.

“The ambition set out by Waterford Chamber is significant. Waterford and the wider South East have enormous potential, but that potential will not be realised without the right investment, infrastructure and Government support.

“Too many key decisions are taken in Dublin without enough consideration of their impact on regions like ours. That has to change.

“The strategy highlights the importance of transport connectivity, housing, healthcare, higher education, renewable energy and enterprise development. These are all areas where Government decisions will determine whether Waterford and the South East can grow and prosper.

“We need to see a clear plan from Government to support this ambition. That means setting priorities, committing funding and ensuring that major infrastructure projects are delivered. Regional development cannot simply be a matter of fine words and long-term strategies.

“Waterford is the anchor city for the South East. Investment in our transport links, third-level education, healthcare and housing would benefit communities and businesses across the region. We need Government to recognise that and act accordingly.

“Waterford and the South East deserve the same ambition and investment as other parts of the country. We need a Government that works with the region to deliver the infrastructure, services and jobs required to fulfil its potential.”