This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Private and public 'success' exhibition
24/03/2003
Businesses in the West of Scotland were tonight urged to
work with local authorities and the public sector to make
full use of opportunities offered by European funds.
Speaking at an exhibition of successful partnerships
between the private and public sectors, Deputy Finance and
Public Services Minister Peter Peacock stressed how
European funds have helped businesses to achieve their
objectives in collaboration with public sector
agencies.
Business people from across West of Scotland attended
the exhibition to discuss the opportunities presented by
funds from Europe with those who have already formed
successful private/public partnerships.
Mr Peacock said:
"Around £90 million of new European Funds are due to
come to the West of Scotland this year alone. That's extra
money that can be used for business parks, research
facilities, venture capital and a host of other
projects.
"Getting involved in European Funds makes good business
sense. It lets companies build long term partnerships with
public sector developers and brings public sector assets
together with private sector capital.
"The experience of using European funds, which we have
seen here tonight, demonstrates that public agencies and
the private sectors can achieve more by working together
than separately.
"Joint working also makes the most of different
expertise and distinctive strengths. It gives us a chance
to make a difference and tackle real problems through new
business opportunities and it secures new money from Europe
for the benefit of our economy.
"I and the Executive have no doubts that the best way to
create a modern dynamic economy is to work in
partnership."
Over £17 million of new European Grant for the West of
Scotland was announced on March 17.