Local Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith has said the development needs of the central border region must be examined.
Deputy Smith told the Dáil it is "very important" that in planning for further expansion of the all-Ireland economy that we are "mindful" of the areas both North and South which have not developed to the extent that the east coast has, particularly the Dublin-Belfast corridor. In a statement issued to Northern Sound, Deputy Smith said that he is referring to Cavan and Monaghan and neighbouring counties Fermanagh, Tyrone and Armagh.
He added that these counties are all very strong in farming, agri-food, engineering and construction products and have a growing tourism sector. Deputy Smith believes it is "very important" that planning for the future is based on qualitative and quantitative research.
Deputy Smith continued: "I would like to see the NESC undertake a study on the challenges that face the central border region. It is a region that does not have major urban centres or third level institutions so it's hugely important. "When we talk about the all-island economy we cannot just talk about the Dublin-Belfast corridor or the North-West Derry to Donegal area, we must take account of the central border region too, which has huge potential around tourism, agriculture and food production," he said.
"The IDA property programme is very successful too in constructing advance factories and advance buildings, in which investors can then invest to create well-paid jobs. We have the technological universities too, and we need to improve infrastructure, including the roads."
