Media Archive

Galway Airport stakeholders agree 5 Year Plan

The board of Galway Airport hosted a key strategy meeting last week with its key stakeholders. Present at the meeting were the Industrial Development Authority, Enterprise Ireland, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Failte Ireland West, Galway County Manager, Galway City Manager, Galway Chamber of Commerce, airport Board members and members of the airports' management team.

The key purpose of the meeting was to agree a five year vision for Galway, agree on the role of the airport in helping achieving that vision, establish the critical decisions and identify the key actions required to achieve that vision. The strategy day was facilitated by an independent professional facilitator, Mr. John Lines.

A clear, well articulated vision of Galway was agreed by all parties which was underpinned by the following aspects:

1. A cultural ‘Hub' encompassing our unique heritage
2. A centre for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and opportunity
3. A competitive environment providing value for money
4. A destination of excellence
5. Providing an excellent environment and standard of living
6. A vibrant location
7. An economic engine

It was agreed by all stakeholders that Galway Airport is an essential element in the achievement of the above vision.

The meeting recognised the constraints on Government expenditure but agreed that continuing funding will be of critical importance to Galway Airport to facilitate its role as a provider of vital services to multinational and indigenous companies in support of the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta in developing industry and also in support of Failte Ireland and the tourism industry.

Galway Airport provides critical air access to international markets with 85% of the airports' annual passenger traffic either departing from or arriving to the island of Ireland.

Independent economic analysis has estimated that Galway Airport directly contributes €31 million annually to the region with the indirect impact associated with maintaining access to international markets being far greater.

In concluding the meeting all stakeholders agreed to progress with the development of a strategy to deliver the vision for Galway over the coming 5 years.

Following the conclusion of the day long meeting Michael Corless, Chairman of the Board of Galway Airport said that "it is essential to involve and understand all of our key stakeholders requirements for the future of Galway and in so doing, establish the key role that Galway Airport plays in achieving that vision".

Carmel Brennan, President of Galway Chamber said that "Galway Airport plays a central role in the Chamber's Traffic and Transportation vision for this city and region and will continue to do so. The Chamber will support the strategy for Galway Airport into the future on behalf of our members and the business community in whose interest it is that our airport continues to play a central role in our business connectivity worldwide".

ENDS

For further information contact:

Michael Moloney, Marketing Manager, Galway Airport @ 086-6004288