The Government’s review of the National Development Plan (NDP ) presents a vital opportunity to realign national priorities, but Galway Chamber emphasises that without clear timelines, regional transparency, and strong oversight, the momentum risks stalling. Central to all of this will be the Government’s priority towards regional balance, which must be an integral part of the revised plan and the projects to be implemented.
Galway Chamber is seeking clarity on key projects across infrastructure, housing and enterprise, including the Galway Ring Road, rail investment along the Western Rail Corridor and the expansion of enterprise infrastructure to support growing indigenous and FDI sectors.
“The NDP review is a very welcome move, but the real test is in what gets delivered and when,” said Karen Ronan, CEO of the Galway Chamber. “We need to see immediate clarity on regionally significant projects. Infrastructure, housing delivery, and enterprise-ready supports must all be part of a joined-up plan for regional Ireland if we are to fully unlock our potential as a connected, competitive region.”
Galway Chamber is also reiterating its call for enhanced accountability and regular public reporting on NDP implementation, to ensure delivery is matched by transparency and trust. Project pipelines and updated delivery timelines should be made public swiftly to allow businesses, communities and local authorities to plan with confidence.
Speaking earlier today, the chief executive of Chambers Ireland, Ian Talbot, said: “We must urgently address the existing infrastructure gap to avoid facing a period of managed decline. Our failure to deliver transformative projects is directly impacting the lives of the current generation, with consequences that cannot be delayed until the future.”
