Leitrim could attract 1,300 more remote workers through broadband rollout, according to a new economic strategy focused on jobs, talent and growth.
The completion of the National Broadband Plan across Leitrim could attract more than 1,300 additional remote workers to the county, according to a new ten-year economic development and skills strategy launched this week.
The strategy, Shaping Leitrim 2026-2036, has been developed by Leitrim County Council and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB). It outlines 30 actions across eight strategic pillars designed to strengthen the county’s economy, workforce and quality of life over the next decade.
“This is essential infrastructure that can help us attract investment, retain young people and create opportunities for future generations”
The report suggests that improved digital connectivity, supported by the €46 million National Broadband Plan rollout, presents a significant opportunity for Leitrim to attract remote workers, retain local talent and encourage members of the diaspora to return home.
Currently, 28% of Leitrim’s workforce works remotely, compared with a national average of 35.9%. The report estimates that if the county were to reach the national average, approximately 1,300 additional remote workers could choose to live and work in Leitrim.
The findings were unveiled at the inaugural People, Place, Possibilities Leitrim Ambassadors Summit, a gathering of business leaders, investors, media professionals and members of the Leitrim diaspora aimed at helping shape the county’s future economic development.
KEY NUMBERS: Leitrim’s Growth Ambition
• 1,300 potential additional remote workers in Leitrim
• €46m invested through National Broadband Plan rollout
• 28% of Leitrim workforce currently works remotely
• 35.9% national remote-working rate
• 62% of workers hold third-level qualifications
• 70%+ commute outside Carrick-on-Shannon catchment for work
• 30 actions outlined in new economic strategy
• Eight strategic pillars underpin ten-year plan
• Population growth of almost 10% since 2018
• Strategy covers 2026-2036 development period
Editorial takeaway: Leitrim’s challenge is no longer digital connectivity but converting its skilled workforce, broadband investment and population growth into local jobs, enterprise expansion and inward investment.
New ways of working could deliver economic boost for region
The strategy highlights Leitrim’s strong educational profile. Within the Carrick-on-Shannon labour catchment area, more than 62% of resident workers hold third-level qualifications. However, more than 70% currently commute outside the area for employment.
Chief executive of Leitrim County Council, Joseph Gilhooly, said the county now has the infrastructure needed to capitalise on changing work patterns.
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“Matching the national remote-working rate alone could bring another 1,300 remote workers into Leitrim’s resident workforce.
“We now have the digital infrastructure to support that ambition. The challenge is to translate connectivity into jobs, investment, business growth and vibrant communities.
“The Leitrim Ambassadors Summit is about bringing together people with a strong connection to this county, along with leaders from business, enterprise and public life, to help us identify new opportunities and build a shared vision for Leitrim’s future. As seen through our recently launched Most Definitely Leitrim initiative, we want to strengthen our profile as a place where people can live exceptionally well, build successful careers and create sustainable businesses.”
The two-day summit is examining opportunities in enterprise development, talent attraction, rural regeneration, innovation, culture and investment.
The Shaping Leitrim strategy also sets out a number of long-term ambitions for the county, including increasing occupancy at Carrick Business Campus, deepening links with Atlantic Technological University, establishing a talent attraction programme targeting the Leitrim diaspora, and supporting growth in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, professional services, agri-food and the green economy.
Leitrim’s population has increased by almost 10% since 2018, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Ireland. The report argues that a combination of high-speed broadband infrastructure, a highly educated workforce, competitive business costs and quality of life gives the county a strong platform for future economic and population growth.
An Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Mary Bohan, said broadband investment could transform opportunities for local communities and businesses.
“For generations, geography could limit the jobs people could take and the markets local businesses could reach. High-speed broadband changes that equation.
“People can now live in Leitrim and work anywhere. This is essential infrastructure that can help us attract investment, retain young people and create opportunities for future generations.”
Image at top: Carrick-on-Shannon in County Leitrim, where new broadband investment and remote-working opportunities could attract 1,300 additional workers
FAQ: Shaping Leitrim’s Economic Future
What is the Shaping Leitrim 2026-2036 strategy?
A ten-year economic development and skills strategy developed by Leitrim County Council and MSLETB, built around eight strategic pillars and 30 actions.
How many additional remote workers could Leitrim attract?
The strategy estimates that matching the national remote-working rate could bring approximately 1,300 additional remote workers to the county.
Why is broadband considered important for Leitrim’s growth?
Improved connectivity through the National Broadband Plan is expected to support remote working, attract investment, retain talent and strengthen rural communities.
What percentage of Leitrim’s workforce currently works remotely?
Around 28% of Leitrim’s workforce works remotely, compared with a national average of 35.9%.
How skilled is Leitrim’s workforce?
More than 62% of workers in the Carrick-on-Shannon labour catchment area hold third-level qualifications.
Why do many Leitrim residents leave the county for work?
More than 70% of workers in the Carrick-on-Shannon catchment currently commute outside the area for employment.
What sectors are targeted for future growth?
The strategy highlights opportunities in advanced manufacturing, professional services, agri-food and the green economy.
What role will the Leitrim diaspora play?
The county plans to develop talent attraction initiatives aimed at encouraging members of the Leitrim diaspora to return, invest and contribute to economic growth.
How fast is Leitrim’s population growing?
Leitrim’s population has increased by almost 10% since 2018, making it one of Ireland’s fastest-growing counties.
What is the long-term goal of the strategy?
To create more local employment, attract investment, retain talent and build vibrant, sustainable communities across Leitrim over the next decade.
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