Athlone councillor and Local Election candidate Jim Henson has backed a call by his fellow Labour politician and Midlands North-West European Election candidate, Lorraine Higgins, for better use of EU funds to boost economic recovery in towns and villages. This follows a report into the economic strength of Irish rural towns.
Henson stated, “As Lorraine rightly points out, the Teagasc Index published recently clearly illustrates how rural towns are bearing the brunt of the recession, compared to their urban counterparts. Provincial towns and villages are suffering disproportionately to cities, and they must reap the benefits of the economic recovery.
“The research shows that there has been less of a focus by national development strategies on rural towns than cities. Areas such as the Midlands, west, and south-east have the highest concentration of towns struggling with emigration and unemployment. Towns that are weaker tend to be the ones furthest away from cities, or are situated on the edge of city commuter belts.”
Cllr Henson went on to point out that during a visit to Athlone by Ms Higgins the Labour candidates met with families to discuss their needs, and the needs of the town.
“The smallest changes can make Athlone and other towns more attractive places to visit, to shop, and to socialise in. Therefore, we should take heed of the Teagasc insight and work to effect positive changes on the ground, so that our community, and others, no longer suffer disproportionately,” he added,
