Galway’s chances of hosting any part of the 2014 Volvo Ocean Race will continue to appear doubtful unless the Government throws its weight behind the city’s bid.
This is the view of Labour city councillor Niall McNelis, who has tabled a motion on the issue for discussion at Monday’s city council meeting.
Cllr McNelis’ motion seeks the Galway City Council to call on the Minister for Sport Jimmy Deenihan and the Government to “fully back” Galway’s bid for involvement as a 2014 race city, “due to the financial implications its hosting has for national exchequer”.
Cllr McNelis said the city hosting the finale during the summer was a massive boost for both Galway and the State, and that in these financially difficult times, such events are needed.
“The Government will get €4 million for the race but it will also make much more on top of that from VAT and other taxes with visitors coming to stay and spend in Galway,” he said. “The boost to the local economy is also enormous. I know of many businesses who have told me they will be able to stay open for another year at least due to the trade they did during the VOR finale
