Galway Chamber has welcomed the specific inclusion of the Galway Ring Road in Minister Jack Chambers’ Budget 2027 speech, describing it as an important reaffirmation of Government support for a project central to the region’s future development.
The Chamber also welcomed measures to support enterprise, investment and innovation, while emphasising the need for continued action on housing, infrastructure and the cost of doing business.
Responding to Budget 2027, the Chamber highlighted the proposed reduction in Capital Gains Tax, enhancements to research and development supports, the increase in the employer PRSI threshold and further investment to help Irish companies scale.
Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber, said The specific reference to the Galway Ring Road in today’s Budget speech is welcome.
“This is a project that Galway Chamber has consistently championed because of its importance to connectivity, regional competitiveness and the daily lives of people living and working in Galway.“Congestion affects businesses, commuters and the movement of goods and services across our city and county. Maintaining Government support for the Ring Road, alongside investment in public transport and active travel, is essential to a transport system that can serve Galway’s growing population and economy. The priority now is to sustain that commitment and progress the project through the remaining processes towards delivery.
“There are positive measures in this Budget for businesses seeking to invest, innovate and grow. Support for research and development, access to investment and measures that ease employment costs are welcome, particularly for smaller businesses managing sustained pressure on their margins.
“For Galway, the test will be how these measures translate into practical improvements for businesses and the people they employ. Our ability to attract investment, retain talent and support local enterprise depends on people being able to find a home, travel to work and access the services they need.”
The Chamber welcomed the emphasis on long-term infrastructure investment and the proposed additional capacity for local authorities to invest in capital projects. It said delivery must reflect the needs of growing regional economies, with clear timelines and coordination across housing, transport, energy and water infrastructure.
