Annual Conference 2008

BMW Conference addresses Quality of Life

Delegates at the Border Midland and Western (BMW) Regional Assembly’s Annual Conference in Portlaoise, Co. Laois on Thursday, 1st May 2008, were informed of the need to focus on quality of life in order to improve the region’s competitive advantages.

In his opening address, Councillor James Deegan, Chairman of the Assembly, highlighted the opportunities and challenges that exist for further developing the Region’s quality of life. He stated that the Border, Midland and West (BMW) Region has rich assets which make it an attractive place to live, work and visit, and in which to invest and study. These include stunning countryside, a magnificent coastline and areas of natural beauty.

The keynote speaker was Mr. Nicky Brennan, President of the Gaelic Athletic Association. He informed the conference that insufficient attention is being paid to the connection between sport and health and he recommended that the education system should place more emphasis on sport to ensure young people’s wellbeing. Mr. Brennan gave details of a new initiative by the GAA to engage single elderly men in GAA activities.

Professor Niall Moyna, Dublin City University spoke about the importance of increasing physical activity throughout people’s lives. He expressed concern with the current trend of increasing obesity levels among the population due to poor diets and insufficient exercise. He highlighted in particular the low levels of fitness among young people especially girls. Professor Moyna emphasised the need to improve the design of the built environment to promote physical activity.

Ann Marie Maher, Laois County Council outlined the range of programmes and initiatives that are being undertaken in County Laois. These include leisure centres, playgrounds, parks, trails and sports inclusion initiatives for all ages.

Broadcaster and President of An Taisce, Eanna Ní Lamhna presented the challenges and opportunities for the BMW region in relation to maintaining and improving the quality of the rural environment.

The final speaker, Economist, Dr. Jim Fitzpatrick, presented the Quality of Life measurement project that he is currently engaged in on behalf of the Regional Assemblies. This will quantify for the first time an index of the quality of life in each of the designated gateways across the state.

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