The completion of the National Broadband Plan rollout across Co Leitrim has the potential to attract 1,300 additional remote workers to the county, according to a new report.
Leitrim County Council will launch ‘Shaping Leitrim 2026-2036,’ a ten-year economic development and skills strategy for the northwest county.
The report found that 28% of Leitrim’s workforce works remotely, compared with the national average of 36%, which would equate to an additional 1,300 remote workers.
The report from the County Council and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board contains 30 actions to strengthen the county’s economy, workforce and communities.
It found that 62% of workers in the Carrick-on-Shannon labour catchment area hold third-level qualifications, but more than 70% travel outside that area for employment.
The ‘Shaping Leitrim’ report will be launched at an inaugural People, Place, Possibilities Leitrim Ambassadors Summit.
The two-day gathering will bring together business leaders, media professionals, investors and members of the Leitrim diaspora from across the globe.
Translating ‘connectivity into jobs’
Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council Joseph Gilhooly said matching the national remote-working rate alone could bring 1,300 remote workers into Leitrim’s workforce.
“We now have the digital infrastructure to support that ambition. The challenge is to translate connectivity into jobs, investment, business growth and vibrant communities,” he said.
He said the summit will bring together people with a strong connection to Leitrim, along with business and enterprise leaders to help identify opportunities for the county.
The ‘Shaping Leitrim’ report contains contributions from IDA, Enterprise Ireland, the Atlantic Technological University, Regional Skills Forum, IFA, Teagasc, the Western Development Commission and private sector employers.
It sets out targets that include increasing occupancy at Carrick-on-Shannon Business Campus, strengthening links with ATU and developing a talent attraction programme for the Leitrim diaspora.
It also proposes expanding opportunities in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, professional services, agri-food and the green economy.
Leitrim has a population of approximately 35,000 people – a population that increased by 10% between the 2016 census and the 2022 census.
Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council Cllr Mary Bohan said the rollout of high-speed broadband changes the geography of employment.
“For generations, geography could limit the jobs people could take and the markets local businesses could reach. High-speed broadband changes that equation.
“This is essential infrastructure that can help us attract investment, retain young people and create opportunities for future generations,” she said.
