Completion of broadband programme could bring 1300 remote workers to Leitrim

The completion of the €46m National Broadband Plan rollout across Leitrim could help attract over 1,300 additional remote workers to the county according to a major new economic development and skills strategy for the county. The findings are contained in Shaping Leitrim 2026-2036 a ten-year economic development and skills strategy developed by Leitrim County Council and Mayo Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board. The ten-year strategy is built around eight pillars and 30 practical actions designed to strengthen Leitrim’s economy workforce and communities between 2026 and 2036.

According to the report 28pc of Leitrim’s workforce currently works remotely compared with a national average of 35.9pc. If the county were to close that gap it could result in approximately 1,300 additional remote workers living and working in Leitrim. The strategy highlights the unique opportunity this presents for a county that already possesses a highly skilled workforce. Within the Carrick-on-Shannon labour catchment area more than 62pc of resident workers hold third-level qualifications yet over 70pc currently travel outside the area for employment.

The Shaping Leitrim report was launched at an inaugural People Place Possibilities Leitrim Ambassadors Summit which brings together business leaders media professionals investors and members of the Leitrim diaspora from across the globe. Beyond remote working the Shaping Leitrim strategy sets ambitious targets for the coming decade including increasing occupancy at Carrick Business Campus strengthening links with Atlantic Technological University developing a talent attraction programme for the Leitrim diaspora and expanding opportunities in sectors such as advanced manufacturing professional services agri-food and the green economy.

Joseph Gilhooly, Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council, shared: “Matching the national remote-working rate alone could bring another 1,300 remote workers into Leitrim’s resident 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. The Leitrim Ambassadors Summit is about bringing together people with a strong connection to this county, along with leaders from business, enterprise and public life, to help us identify new opportunities and build a shared vision for Leitrim’s future.”