North West ‘ready to deliver’ as Chambers address Oireachtas Committee
The joint appearance provided an important platform to bring the voice of the North West business community directly to policymakers, with a clear and consistent message: the region is already delivering results, and with the right support, it can deliver even more
Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce joined Londonderry Chamber of Commerce in appearing before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement at Leinster House, highlighting both the progress and potential of the North West City Region.
The joint appearance provided an important platform to bring the voice of the North West business community directly to policymakers, with a clear and consistent message: the region is already delivering results, and with the right support, it can deliver even more.
Representatives emphasised that the North West should no longer be viewed as a peripheral area across two jurisdictions, but as a single, functioning economic region encompassing Donegal, Derry and Strabane.
Strong collaboration between business, education and civic leaders is already driving growth, innovation and investment across the region.
However, both Chambers highlighted that this progress is being achieved despite ongoing structural challenges, particularly in infrastructure and cross-border mobility.
Critical infrastructure, including the A5/Western Transport Corridor, wastewater capacity, energy provision and connectivity, was identified as essential to unlocking the region’s full economic potential. The Chambers stressed that aligning these investments with national planning frameworks will be key to supporting sustainable growth.
Barriers to cross-border employment also remain a concern, with issues around taxation, pensions, mortgages and qualification recognition continuing to limit workforce mobility and access to talent.
At the same time, the Chambers pointed to significant positives, including the development of Atlantic Technological University in Donegal and the planned expansion of Magee Campus in Derry, both of which are strengthening the region’s talent pipeline and enhancing its attractiveness to investors.
The session also highlighted the “Atlantic Advantage” proposition - a cross-border initiative positioning the North West as a leading location for AI-driven, innovation-led growth.
Speaking following the meeting, Toni Forrester, CEO of Letterkenny Chamber, said: “Donegal businesses are already achieving strong growth, creating jobs and driving innovation, often without the same level of funding and support seen in other regions. That speaks volumes about the ambition, resilience and capability that exists here.
What we demonstrated this week is that the North West is not waiting; we are actively working together, building partnerships and delivering progress. We are ready to do even more.
With the right investment, aligned policy and a level playing field, there is a real opportunity to unlock the full potential of this region. Imagine what could be achieved if Donegal and the wider North West were supported in the same way as other parts of the country. The return would not just benefit this region, but the entire island.”
Both Chambers welcomed the engagement from Committee members and the recognition of the importance of addressing cross-border barriers and supporting balanced regional development.
They reiterated their commitment to continued collaboration with government and stakeholders, North and South, ensuring that the North West City Region can play a full and active role in driving economic growth across the island.