Meeting in Thomond Park Stadium Limerick last week, the Shannon Development Conference brought together national and international experts in the field of regional development.
Dr Vincent Cunnane, Shannon Development Chief Executive, said the region's unique strengths were already making a valuable contribution to national recovery.
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"The challenge, now more than ever, is to continue to invest in our regions to ensure balanced development in all parts of Ireland," he said
Addressing the conference, Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said regional development is "now more important than ever".
"I believe the time for strong regional development is now.
"Mobilising the contribution of each region to national competitiveness is at the forefront of what we do. Strong regions will help us grow and sustain a strong national economy."
Economist Jim Power said continued ongoing investment in transport infrastructure such as ports, airport, rail and road, is critical for the mid-west economy.
"Also critical for the region and Ireland generally will be a competitively priced power supply - without this, economic and commercial activity will be in jeopardy."
(PR/KMcA)
