European election candidate Barry Cowen TD has called for funding support for the Galway Port extension.
Deputy Cowen met with Port of Galway CEO Connor O’Dowd last week, taking a tour of the docks as the project progressing through initial planning procedures with ongoing funding supports.
Deputy Cowen insists there will be numerous benefits to the project for Galway in relation to the local economy, infrastructure and housing, in addition to the greater Midlands North West region regarding trade and renewable energy.
He said that the Port is putting significant funds forward to progress the extension plans, and has identified further potential funding avenues.
“But the State needs to help bridge the gap so they can receive support through TEN-T, ERDF or other EU Funding, as well as targeted tax incentives and long term, low interest debt,” said the Fianna Fáil TD.
“I also welcome commitment of the Land Development Agency to the project. European funding and funding of ports in general helps with connectivity and offers substantial business and renewable energy opportunities.
“The repositioning of the port would also create employment in construction and leave 17 acres that can be redeveloped for the community and used for housing.”
Deputy Cowen said that the Port is already a healthy, well-run business – generating €6 million in revenue last year – but is forced to turn away business opportunities due to its size.
“The extension of the Port would attract more business to Galway, create jobs and facilitate economic growth in the region. But we all need to work together at local, national and European levels to resolve practical issues in order to make it happen.
“If I am elected to Europe I will be pushing for Ireland to play a leading role in a Pan-European energy grid, it would involve a planning board to deliver expertise in offshore wind planning and accelerate the construction of projects in the West of Ireland and indeed across Europe.
“If Ireland is to achieve energy security, and realise its vast potential in relation to offshore wind, these are exactly the kind of the projects that must be championed.”
