Cllr Malcolm Byrne, Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council.

Wexford County Council unanimously adopted its €100 million Budget for 2015.

All the members voted for the final agreed package, which will see almost no change in charges but an increase in service provision in some areas, particularly economic development. It is understood that Wexford is the only local authority anywhere in the country so far where all members supported the final agreement.

Commenting Cathaoirleach of the Council, Cllr Malcolm Byrne said: “The Council worked well together to achieve what we felt was the best outcome in the interests of everyone in Co. Wexford. This was in spite of a further cut to our funding. There is also a new emphasis on supporting local economic development and in assisting the creation of new business in the County.”

Commercial rates in Gorey town, which were the highest in the county, will be reduced, but most commercial rates levels will remain the same as 2014.

In Gorey, the Market House Festival, Christmas lights and summer planting will continue to be funded by the Council.

The agreement was reached following a new process initiated by Cllr Byrne that saw a Budget subcommittee comprising representatives of all parties and independents meet in advance of the Budget to examine all options.

The challenge was complicated due to anticipated cuts in national funding for the Council of about €600,000.