Ireland’s hidden heartland makes its pitch in London

Irish Embassy in London highlights Upper Shannon Erne Region as a prime investment hub, showcasing Longford, Leitrim, Cavan and Roscommon opportunities.

The Irish Embassy in London recently hosted an event aimed at positioning the Upper Shannon Erne Region as a prime destination for business investment.

The initiative, titled Unlocking Opportunities in the Upper Shannon Erne Region, brought together representatives from Longford, Leitrim, Cavan and Roscommon in a collaborative effort to attract overseas investors.

“It’s been another successful year for the Local Enterprise Office in Longford, with strong growth in business and job creation”

The gathering drew business leaders and members of the regional diaspora, offering a platform to explore opportunities in the heart of Ireland. Attendees heard from senior officials and industry figures about the region’s potential for growth and innovation.

Longford County Council was represented by Cathaoirleach Garry Murtagh, Chief Executive Paddy Mahon, Directors of Services John Brannigan and Michael Nevin, and Catherine Kane from the Local Enterprise Office.

IDA Ireland chief executive Michael Lohan delivered the keynote address, while broadcaster Brian Dobson moderated a panel featuring Raj Singh of Center Parcs Longford, Ann-Marie Kelly of CWS Hygiene Ireland, Barry Regan of Freudberg Medical and Caroline Ashe Brady of KORE Insulation.

Parc life

Singh praised the support Center Parcs received when establishing operations in Longford, citing a skilled and loyal workforce and strong backing from local authorities. “The level of collaboration and community engagement was exceptional,” he said.

Cathaoirleach Murtagh highlighted Longford’s strategic advantages. “Our central location and entrepreneurial roots make Longford an attractive place for investment,” he said. “We have strong links with cities like London that can be deepened through business collaboration.”

Chief Executive Mahon emphasised the benefits of a regional approach. “This event illustrates the opportunities Longford can leverage for inward investment,” he said. “We have a highly skilled workforce, an innovative business culture and a determination to make our county an even better place to live, work and invest.”

Michael Nevin, head of Enterprise, described the event as a chance to showcase the region’s strengths.

“It’s been another successful year for the Local Enterprise Office in Longford, with strong growth in business and job creation,” he said. “We are committed to supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs who want to invest here.”

The initiative reflects growing efforts to position Ireland’s midlands as a competitive hub for investment, combining infrastructure, talent and community support to attract global business.

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