b'Economic The Councils actions in economic policy can play The improving economy has impacted a part in mitigating risks to our local economy.development levels and housing costs, howeverIn this regard the Council in 2020 will develop a with supply still behind population growth, thisfive-year Economic Strategy that supplementswill continue to present major challenges. Whileour LECP and identifies actions and targets in the the economy has gradually recovered, there arearea ofForeign Direct Investment FDI, SMEuncertainties from Brexit and international tradesupports, Equine Industry Tourism, Retail,developments. To withstand future shocks there isEducation, Green Economy, Agri-Food together a need to ensure Council finances and our with Public Realm and infrastructure projects to ability to meet citizens needs are on a sustainablerevitalise the local economies of our towns,footing. In this regard our activities in attractingvillages and rural hinterlands. investment and supporting and growing localbusinesses can play an important role. Since 2014Our strategy will ensure consultation andlocal authorities are more active players in alignment with the Regional Spatial and Economic facilitating employment and supporting business. Strategy developed by the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly. Realising opportunities from Our economic base comprises 92% SMEs. Weour strategy will strengthen the sustainability of recognise that, as stakeholders in our Countysfunding to the Council and enable reinvestment in prosperity, supporting businesses through supporting infrastructure and services thatour Local Enterprise Office, Kildare Filte and theenhance quality of life of all.delivery of enabling infrastructure, in turn supports the Councils funding and our capacity to deliver services to the entire community.While Kildare has the second highest rate ofForeign Direct Investment nationally, thechallenge will be sustaining this position incompetition with growing urban economic areasin Ireland and elsewhere and to convert FDI into increased employment in our County. 27'