The newly-built South Tyrone East Fermanagh workspace development in Clabby, can help to stimulate economic growth in the local area.
That was the message from Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, when she officially opened the 10,109 square foot workspace at Clabby Enterprise Park, today.
The Minister said: “The creation of six new workspace units here at Clabby Enterprise Park has the potential to create up to 36 jobs. It can also help encourage local entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth in the local area.
“This development will provide much needed regeneration within the local community, helping to address the social and economic disadvantages experienced in Fermanagh and South Tyrone in recent years.â€
Arlene Foster believes the continued growth and success of local businesses must be encouraged, particularly in these recessionary times. She said: “I believe a key to maintaining a sustainable future for Northern Ireland is encouraging the growth of local businesses. Workspace developments, such as Clabby Enterprise Park, provide people with the facilities they need to start a business or grow an existing business.
“While there is no easy fix to the global economic downturn and the measures being taken will take time to have an effect, it is essential that Northern Ireland businesses position themselves effectively to take advantage of the upturn when it occurs.â€
The workspace development at Clabby is one of over 40 projects across Northern Ireland, set up to create new jobs in deprived areas, by providing flexible workspace units for new and expanding businesses.
It was developed by Fivemiletown Community Development Association (FCDA) at a total cost of £822,057,
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) provided support to the project with EU Peace and Reconciliation (Peace II) assistance of £442,107. Funding was also secured from the International Fund for Ireland (IFI), Fermanagh District Council, Dungannon and South Tyrone District Council, and Ulster Community Investment Trust Ltd (UCIT). ,
Anne Henderson, Board Member of the International Fund for Ireland, said: “I am delighted to be here at the opening of Clabby Enterprise Park. I would like to praise Fivemiletown Community Development Association Ltd for their dedication in bringing this project to fruition, despite the many challenges which they faced.
“The International Fund for Ireland is very happy to support such projects which create the conditions where businesses can flourish and grow. Clabby Enterprise Park will provide services that will no doubt contribute to the growth of the local economy and play an important role in the long term prosperity of the area.â€
Speaking at the ceremony, FCDA board member, Wilfred Anderson said: “We are very grateful for such generous support from our funding bodies, which has resulted in this outstanding facility that will increase the employment opportunities within the Clabby area.”