ONE of the main challenges for the future locally, is to ensure Omagh's position as a sub-regional centre and secure public sector jobs for the area following the review of Public Administration, said council chairman, Sean Begley at the Chamber of Commerce business awards on Friday evening.

He said the council's economic strategy, identifies enterprise and employment as one of the key areas for development.

"This plan will provide a framework for action and we are excited about the potential, both for development and the positioning of the district with the changes which will be implemented under the terms of the Review of Public Administration."

He continued, "It is accepted that the economy of the district and indeed the Northern Ireland economy is dependent to a large extent on the public sector. The challenge in the years ahead will be to maintain public sector employment in the face of change as a result of the review of public administration and also to encourage and develop entrepreneurial activity to enable us to achieve the objectives of the Enterprise and employment theme. We must target an increase in new business, promote growth in existing businesses and improve business survival rates in the Omagh District. I am proud of Omagh council's investment in business start-up, growth and development schemes and we will continue to work together with other key stakeholders in the statutory, voluntary and business sector, to support these key elements of our economy."

The council chairman continued, "We have made great progress in the development of the Omagh District in recent years. When I use the term we, I am referring collectively to the key stakeholders who have worked in partnership for the betterment of the district. It is clear that partnership does work and the Council remains committed to this approach. I am confident that the Chamber of Commerce and the business community in general will continue to use their influence and energy as a key player to help ensure that the development is maintained."

He added, "The Omagh 2010 Taskforce, which finished its work in March of this year, made a valuable contribution in terms of providing a context for the many initiatives which have led to the Omagh we see today. A new Arts Centre which will be handed over at the end of the month, an environmental improvement scheme which has made us the envy of many towns across the North and a new third level educational centre of excellence have all been delivered. The retail sector has flourished and the enterprise Centre continues to attract small businesses seeking to establish themselves. Yes, we have made progress, but there is much yet to be done.

He concluded "We have the best opportunity in a generation to use our influence for the benefit of all the people of this district. The Council is ready and willing to meet its responsibilities. I am confident that our partners will support us in our efforts."