Limerick business leaders have been urged to look to the East for examples of diversity and successful commerce as well as performing business interests, according to the outgoing President of Limerick Chamber.

Reg Freake, President of Limerick Chamber with his wife Jean at the Chamber's annual dinner dance last Friday. Picture: Keith Wiseman

Speaking at the annual Limerick Chamber Dinner in the Radisson Hotel on Friday night last, Reg Freak told Chamber delegates and local business organisations to catch the 'China Syndrome' and seek out business interests in the Far East.

Mr Freake highlighted concerns about enhancing road and rail infrastructure, getting new air routes, education and continuing the regeneration of Limerick, including the city centre.

But he also pointed out that the growth of the Chinese economy could lead to the chance of attracting many foreign companies to the Mid-West.

Mr Freake said China badly needed markets abroad and that this could be an opportunity for Limerick to forge strong links with the world's fastest growing economy.

Reg Freak-who is also part of the multi-million euro business development park Westpark Shannon, has previously brought over Chinese busi9ness interests and Government officials to the Mid-West in order to attract new investment.

In 2007 Chinese officials visited Westpark Shannon and were brought around the Shannon region to see the type of business attractions that were on offer to them here.

During his speech to the Limerick Chamber annual dinner last weekend the Limerick Chamber President also made reference to the 2007 debacle that was Aer Lingus' decision to pull its daily Shannon-Heathrow service.

In 2007, Limerick Chamber of Commerce joined forces with Chambers in Ennis, Shannon and Galway in a direct appeal to the Taoiseach to protect local businesses by intervening in the Aer Lingus decision.

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