Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of the Western Development Commission today welcomed an extra €5m allocation in Budget 2021 to the Department of Rural and Community Development which will support remote working and build on the network of remote working hubs along the Atlantic Economic Corridor. The funding allocated will provide for targeted investment in digital hubs and broadband connection points across the country supporting connected communities. Generating economic activity in local areas, these hubs can enable workers and students to work remotely and highlight the opportunities for second sites for companies seeking to expand beyond their existing office.
Speaking on the budget allocation Tomás said;
This allocation is very welcome and will allow hubs and broadband connection points to work together both in their own communities and beyond. Allowing people to work close to where they live and continue to build a career is an important step towards revitalising sustainable communities and supporting balanced regional development.
Minister Heather Humphreys said, “Rural Ireland has shown tremendous resilience during Covid-19 and this budget allocation will centre upon economic recovery, job creation and the digital economy. I’m particularly pleased to see further investment in remote, or connected, working.”
