The changes enforced by councillors to the Galway City Council budget will bring about improvements and benefits for citizens, tourists, and businesses across the city.
This is the view of Independent councillor Declan McDonnell, who has described the local authority budget as “very progressive given the current economic climate”.
Cllr McDonnell in particular welcomed the €50,000 allocation for the marketing and promotion of Galway city, which will be used to help promote the various festivals and events held in the city.
“This is a great boost, particularly given that €350,000 was also allocated for promotion of the Volvo Ocean Race finale which is coming to Galway next June,” he said. “It is an ideal opportunity to promote our city.”
Cllr McDonnell said he was also “delighted” that funding for sports grants was increased to €70,000.
“Officials in the council proposed to reduce this fund to €30,000, but councillors were able to reorganise funding and have this fund increased from €60,000 in 2011,” he said. “It will benefit many people of all ages who are involved in sporting clubs and organisations.”
Cllr McDonnell said the allocation of €25,000 for the replacement and refurbishment of playgrounds will be “welcome news for parents of young children”.
“Mervue Playground, which is one of the playgrounds earmarked for improvements has been in a poor state for some time,” he said. “I am hopeful the refurbishment will be started early in the new year.”
