IDA says an M18 technology corridor can lead to thousands of jobs

Date Published: 28-Sep-2011

The next decade can see a ‘Technology Corridor’ between Galway, Ennis and Limerick – linked by the new M18 motorway – with the potential to create hundreds and even thousands of jobs here, according to the IDA.

And the industrial authority has rubbished the notion that South Galway has been neglected in terms of job creation in recent years.

Jim Murren, Western Regional Manager of the IDA told the Connacht Tribune that the authority uses all its influence to attract jobs to the greater Galway area – including the smaller towns.

And he said the M18 Gort-Limerick motorway is a key piece of infrastructure in attracting companies to towns like Gort, and for the creation of new jobs.

“Infrastructure like the M18 is hugely important in attracting investment to Galway. Management can fly into Shannon and it’s just a short journey up the road.

“Companies will drag the workforce from Galway, North Clare and Ennis, and good road access is crucial. We have that infrastructure – the nature of it is its near the centre of population and critical mass.

“Look at a company like CareFusion in Gort … it’s considered a favoured site by management. There were 100 people working there, and then they announced 35 more jobs.

“It’s proving to be a huge success. I would be confident this company’s success will lead to more jobs,” said Mr Murren.

See full story – and CareFusion feature – in this week’s Connacht Tribune.