The EU has downgraded Irelands north and west to a lagging region.
b'The EU has downgraded Ireland\\u2019s north and west to a \\u2018lagging region\\u2019. The area, which includes Galway, Roscommon, Leitrim, Sligo, Donegal, Monaghan, and Mayo has been downgraded as it has been noted as being significantly poorer relative to the European average over recent years. \\n\\nThe commission said the region faced a range of development challenges including lower productivity and educational attainment, a weaker skills base, and a business environment. \\n\\nIn reaction to this Shane spoke to Donegal person of the year, TV personality and ambassador to Harvey\\u2019s Point hotel Donegal, Noel Cunningham.'