Galway Chamber Calls for Urgent Air Connectivity Investment

UPDATE: At a critical gathering this week, President of the Galway Chamber of Commerce, Cait Noone, urgently called for enhanced regional air connectivity, emphasizing its crucial role in the West’s economic competitiveness. Speaking to a packed audience of business leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives, Noone highlighted the necessity for Shannon Airport to be included in the next Regional Airports Programme.

The annual President’s Business Lunch served as a pivotal platform for dialogue between national policymakers and the regional business community. Noone stated that the government must “match the ambition of Galway” with targeted investments in air travel, infrastructure, and housing to ensure sustained growth in the region.

She outlined specific areas that require urgent attention, including accelerated investments in housing, energy, and skills development. Noone stressed that a proposed increased allocation to Tourism Ireland in Budget 2026 for regional air access would not only bolster the tourism sector but also attract foreign direct investment, unlocking significant capacity in regional airports.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, was the keynote speaker at the event, where he addressed pressing challenges facing businesses in Galway and the wider West of Ireland. He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing regional development, infrastructure, and innovation, all vital for economic sustainability.

Burke highlighted the importance of increased funding for Fáílte Ireland and the expanded remit to support the restaurant sector, indicating that these measures aim to strengthen hospitality businesses across the nation.

The implications of Noone’s statements are profound, as the call for enhanced air connectivity directly impacts local economies, tourism growth, and job creation. As businesses face mounting pressures, the need for efficient air travel becomes even more urgent.

WHAT’S NEXT: Stakeholders are now looking for immediate government action and commitment to these initiatives. The upcoming budget discussions will be critical, and the business community in Galway is poised to advocate strongly for the inclusion of regional air connectivity in government plans.

This dialogue emphasizes the interconnectedness of infrastructure investment and economic growth, highlighting a moment of urgency for stakeholders in the West of Ireland to rally for necessary changes. The outcome of these discussions could fundamentally shape the economic landscape of the region in the near future.