The Galway Port Development Plan is an “ambitious” project which will help open up the entire region and secure Galway’s sustainable economic growth into the future, that is according to Mayor Michael Crowe who has vowed to work to secure the necessary €25 million State investment.
Cllr Crowe, who is contesting the election in Galway West, confirmed yesterday that he is firmly committed to securing State support for the project. “We have already seen the benefit of having proper road and air access. It is now time we looked towards the sea. One of my priorities for Galway will be securing the necessary State investment of €25 million to ensure this development goes ahead. The plans are due to be submitted to An Bord Pleanála in April. At that stage, we will have entered the 31st Dáil. With the backing of the people here in Galway West I will seek support for this crucial project on a national stage.”
Cllr Crowe acknowledged the overwhelming and positive response to the plans which were launched recently by the Galway Harbour Company. He explained that the total estimated cost of the proposed new port is €200 million, with the first phase costing €50 million.
“Having studied the plans extensively I am highly impressed with the countless social and economic benefits of this development, benefits which far out-weigh the cost of construction... There is no doubt that we wouldn’t have to wait long to get significant return on this investment. The Galway Port Company says 300 jobs would be created during the construction phase with a further 300 jobs when the facility is up and running. But this is only the beginning as there would soon be a ripple effect in employment throughout the city.”
Cllr Crowe added: “I want to ensure that Galway Port is in a prime position to compete with other ports around Europe. In order to meet this challenge we must remove the current restrictions in place, open up our maritime gateway to accommodate large vessels and cruise-liners, and ensure Galway is always open for business. There is no other Irish city better placed than Galway to cash in on the benefits this will bring. We have a thriving social and business culture that is the envy of many.”
