> Cork Kerry Region Local Economy

The Southwest of Ireland is rightly well known for its natural beauty and benefits significantly from the tourist interest this creates. Understandably, agriculture is also a major contributor to the economy. The tourist sector is the most significant contributor to the local economy worth an estimated £250m supporting in the region of 10,000 jobs whilst agriculture and food processing accounts for much of the manufacturing employment.

But the region's economy is decidedly more diverse than may first be apparent - Southwest Ireland is an increasingly fertile ground for innovation. Innovation incentives have encouraged and increased job production in the area.