Waterford, Ireland – Today, 9th May, the Southern Regional Assembly commemorated a decade of regional leadership and European collaboration with a series of events, to mark Europe Day and ten years since the Assembly’s establishment.
At the heart of today’s celebrations was the official launch of the Assembly’s Corporate Plan 2024–2029, a forward-looking strategy that outlines the Assembly’s vision for the Southern Region over the next five years.
John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, addressed the elected Members of the Assembly at their monthly meeting. As a Waterford native, he reflected on the Assembly’s role in shaping balanced regional growth and Ireland’s deep connection with the European Union.
Minister Cummins said “The Southern Regional Assembly, and the other Regional Assemblies, are vital to how we plan for the future of our communities—ensuring that no part of Ireland is left behind. Over the past ten years, this Assembly has delivered real, tangible results through smart planning, EU-funded programmes, and strong local partnerships.
On Europe Day, it’s important to recognise that our EU membership has empowered regional development in Ireland—from infrastructure to innovation, climate action to skills. The projects showcased here today are proof of that partnership in action.”
The Corporate Plan 2024–2029 places renewed focus on key areas including:
- Delivery of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES)
- Management of ERDF Regional Programmes
- Engagement in co-funded EU projects
- Action on climate resilience and sustainability
The elected members of the Assembly—drawn from local authorities and the European Committee of the Regions—play a central role in delivering on this vision. Meeting monthly and serving on dedicated committees, they ensure strong oversight, informed decision-making, and democratic accountability in everything the Assembly does.
Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly, Cllr. Ken Murnane, said “This celebration is more than a milestone—it’s a tribute to ten years of meaningful collaboration. The new Corporate Plan sets a strong course, and I have every confidence that our Members and staff will continue to deliver impactful outcomes across the region.”
David Kelly, Director of the Southern Regional Assembly, added “As we launch this plan on Europe Day, it’s important to acknowledge the role of EU partnership in everything we do. This Corporate Plan is a clear reflection of our ambition—to be a driving force in sustainable, connected, and competitive regional development.”
As part of the celebrations Minister Cummins visited Tír na nÓg @ Lady Lane, a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project site where refurbishment works have begun. Waterford City and County Council were awarded €7 million for the redevelopment of the site into a visitors attraction through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
Today’s event underscores the Assembly’s enduring commitment to regional leadership, community engagement, and European partnership. With the new Corporate Plan now in place, the Assembly continues to shape a region that is connected, competitive, sustainable, and inclusive.
For more information or to view the Corporate Plan, visit: https://southernassembly.ie/corporate/corporate-plan/