The offshore energy sector can support long term economic growth across Kerry and beyond, a Cantillon Quarter event in Tralee this morning was told.
The event heard that the sector provides one of the largest emerging opportunities for the region.
Opening the event MTU President Professor Maggie Cusack said that offshore renewable energy is a critical issue for the South West and nationally.
She said it is no longer if, but when, and how a transition will take place and that it can provide long term economic growth for Kerry and the region.
The event heard that this extends beyond energy creation to job creation through supply chain opportunities.
Speakers included Georgina Foley from Propel Ireland who said that Ireland’s greatest advantage is that we are an island country and we are competitive and innovative.
She said that Ireland is home to 16 of the top 20 leading technology companies in the world and the same can happen for offshore energy leaders.
Catherine Sheridan of DNV said that Richard Cantillon recognised that if you are entrepreneurial, and can get in early on an opportunity it snowballs.
Dr Breda O’Dwyer said the Cantillon model was public, private and academic sectors networking together to ensure the success of a region.