Introduction by the Cathaoirleach and Chief Executive We are delighted to introduce Clare County Council’s Annual Report for the calendar year 2016. The details of the council’s achievements during the year are set out under each directorate and we would like to take this opportunity to highlight some the many services provided by the council, its departments and the Elected Members during the year. In an effort to further improve the organisational structure of Clare County Council, five distinct directorates were created in October 2016. The new directorates are Economic Development, Social Development, Physical Development, Rural Development, and Finance and Support Services. During 2016, Clare County Council billed a total of €41.9m in rates. The collection of commercial rates improved on the previous year while the council implemented a commercial rates payment incentive scheme. In the area of planning and economic development, the Clare County Development Plan 2017-2023 was adopted and contained key objectives aimed at stimulating the sustainable economic, rural and social development of the county. A net total of 173 new jobs were delivered in 2016 by small businesses that have been supported by Local Enterprise Office Clare. 2016 was a year marked by a number of progressive developments relating to the council’s role in supporting local tourism. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, Loop Head Lighthouse and the Bird Viewing and Information Point (BVIP) in Mountshannon each recorded increases in visitors. The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark and Lough Derg Marketing Group promoted sustainable tourism in the region. Clare Tourism promoted and marketed Clare as a tourism destination, while the council played a key role in the hosting of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Ennis. Significant progress was made in relation to the maintenance and improvement of the national, regional and local road network while a number of road safety, flood relief and coastal protection works were progressed. Work was completed on the 3km section of the West Clare Greenway and
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