Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 26 October 2016

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

Sustaining Viable Rural Communities: Discussion (Resumed)

2:15 pm

Mr. Ian Brannigan:

Yes, we want that and we are considering tailor-made businesses for them. That is why the creative economy and renewable energy are big. That is why we are looking at these rather than knowledge intensive service industries per sethat will suit Galway and some of the other things. We are looking for high value in many cases. The gross value added, GVA, for the creative economy is quite low because a lot of people work seasonally, part-time or it is a lifestyle choice. We think that is great. One should not ignore it because it does not generate huge GVA. It keeps people in the sector and helps them to supplement their income so that they can stay in the region.

In the area of completeness, I shall come to Deputy Connolly with a response to her question on the western track. They are old friends. I shall also supply a response to the question on ETBs because the committee needs more detail than I can give here.

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