Fine Gael TD for Mayo, Alan Dillon, has welcomed the commitment from Sports and Gaeltacht Minister, Jack Chambers TD, about the expansion of gteic digital hubs in Mayo.
In particular, Údarás na Gaeltachta have confirmed the opportunity to develop a gteic innovation and digital hub in Tuar Mhic Éadaigh continues to be explored and that they will look to further progress matters early next year.
In addition, Údarás na Gaeltachta confirmed that development work is ongoing on gteic@Gaoth Sáile, with building works, co-funded by LEADER and managed by the local community group. Those works had been delayed due to the pandemic.
There are currently four gteic facilities in Mayo offering an incredible range of services and facilities:(1 ) gteic@Béal an Mhuirthead is the flagship gteic hub in Mayo with a 1,105m2 footprint and a capacity of 94 workspaces. Plans for further development are being progressed; (2 ) gteic@An Eachléim is a 200m2 facility with 23 workspaces; (3 ) gteic@Acaill was officially opened in July 2021 encompassing 305m2 and 37 possible workspaces and (4 ) gteic@An Corrán Buí is an 80m2 facility with 8 workspaces
Deputy Dillon said: "The development of the gteic network of Gaeltacht digital and innovation hubs is a strategic initiative by Údarás na Gaeltachta. The digital hubs aim to accelerate the promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship and to create opportunities for remote working in the Gaeltacht.
"This will mean that office space and workspace of the highest standard will be available to entrepreneurs and concept developers in all parts of the Gaeltacht where they can access stable, high quality broadband. With current plans, the gteic hubs being developed via Údarás na Gaeltachta are working toward a view of becoming Ireland’s largest hub network.
"I particularly welcome news of the opportunity to develop a gteic innovation and digital hub in Tuar Mhic Éadaigh continues to be explored. I understand efforts are ongoing to that Údarás na Gaeltachta will look to further progress matters early next year.
"It is also worth noting that development work is ongoing on gteic@Gaoth Sáile and is working toward becoming the fifth gteic digital hub in Mayo with the potential for a sixth in Tuar Mhic Éadaigh. More information can be found on the Údarás na Gaeltachta website at www.udaras.ie "
