West can be EU’s power bank

The new €25 million deep-water harbour planned for Ros a’ Mhíl can be the spark to ignite a golden era for the west coast – on a journey to become Europe’s power bank for renewable energy.

That’s according to a local TD and former Government Minister, who claimed that Ireland has the potential to produce enough renewable electricity to power 64.4m homes across the EU – if the Government develops the offshore energy sector in a strategic manner.

Galway/Roscommon TD Denis Naughten told the Dáil that the country had the capacity to not alone provide for its own power needs – but a considerable slice of Europe as well.

“The present approach of Government is to develop these opportunities in a piecemeal manner, which is positive for ports such as Ros a Mhíl with a €25m investment, but if we are to truly capitalise on our massive offshore energy opportunities then we need to strategically develop all our ports,” he said.

His comments came as Ros a’ Mhíl finally saw the light after a twenty-year campaign by the local community – backed by politicians of all persuasions – in favour of the project that has been described as a ‘game changer’ for the Conamara Gaeltacht.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue officially announced funding this week for the project, which is estimated could create up to 900 jobs.

The money will build a new pier at Ros a’ Mhíl with a 200-metre landing quayside, and 70% greater depth which can facilitate larger fishing vessels.

It is hoped once it is completed, it will revive Ros a’ Mhíl as a major fishing port, as well as create spin-off employment in the fish processing industry.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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