Study provides comprehensive snapshot of economic landscape across city and county

Galway’s two local authorities this week launched an Economic Baseline Study – to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the city and county in relation its demographic base.

The study, which was carried out by The Whitaker Institute in NUI Galwa,y collates all available information relating to socio-economic indicators in Galway.

Two high-level summaries, one for Galway City and one for Galway County, have been produced.

In addition, an accompanying websitewww.galwaydashboard.ie has been developed.

Speaking at the launch in the Galway Bay Hotel, which was attended by about 50 representatives of local business, politicians and other interest groups Cllr Peter Roche, Cathaoirleach of County Galway said that the baseline reports are tools which will be invaluable for both authorities in their efforts over the coming months to set down the future direction for economic development in County Galway.

“Galway City and County are reliant on one another for development and working together on an economic strategy makes perfect sense,” he said.

They will also be critical in the preparation of the Local Economic and Community Plans and the LEADER programme that the Councils are involved in preparing.

Brendan McGrath, Chief Executive of Galway City Council commented: ‘Galway City Council aims to position Galway as a world-class city of innovation and creativity.

“We are actively working on a number of strategies that will guide our vision for Galway over the next few years and the Economic Baseline Study will help inform these strategies.

“It is an exciting time for Galway. Our bid for European Capital of Culture 2020 builds on previous successes, such as the UNESCO City of Film designation, the Urbanism Great Town award, the Purple Flag award and the FDI Micro-City of the Year award.”

“There are major challenges and opportunities ahead for the city and we would encourage all groups, organisations and individuals to get involved in our public consultation processes to ensure that everyone has their say on the future development of our city and county,” said Mr McGrath

As background documents, reviews were prepared outlining strengths, opportunities and recommendations for nine industrial sectors in Galway – marine, agriculture, education, med-tech, ICT, food, tourism, retail and creative.

As part of the launch event, a facilitated round table discussion took place to allow comment and feedback on the Economic Baseline Study and to capture views on the way forward in developing the Economic Strategy for the City and County.

Information on the Economic Baseline Study is available on www.galwaydashboard.ieor email c&c@galwaycity.ie for further details.