New role for former TG4 broadcaster

A former journalist and broadcaster has been appointed as the new CEO of the Western Development Commission.

Tomás Ó Síocháin joins the organisation from NUI Galway, where he was External Engagement Programme Manager, having previously spent more than 14 years as an editor and journalist with RTÉ and TG4.

A native of Quin, Co Clare, and living in Galway, Tomás Ó Síocháin said he saw first-hand the opportunities for the policy, development and financial support offered by the Western Development Commission.

“In terms of work-life balance, opportunity and physical beauty, the west of Ireland has few if any parallels on a global stage,” he said.

“I am privileged to lead an organisation that has done so much in facilitating and supporting growth in this region.

“A significant opportunity now exists to build on the work of the WDC and others in a collaborative and cohesive way; supporting economic, social and cultural growth, not only for those who currently live and work here but to help to inform the decision making of those that will ‘look west’ and choose a better quality of life in the future,” he added.

His appointment is timely, given the renewed focus on Regional Development as part of the National Planning Framework and the announcement of €4 billion in funding under the Ireland 2040 project.

These developments build on the establishment of the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the appointment of a new Board to the WDC.

For more, read  this week’s Connacht Tribune.