Galway City and County Councils combine forces on joint strategy

GALWAY City and County Councils will join forces with a new economic strategy aimed at driving growth and boosting investment across the region.

Published 24th Apr 2026, 06:00 BST Updated 24th Apr 2026, 06:00 BST Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber. Photo: Mike Shaughnessy. GALWAY City and County Councils will join forces with a new economic strategy aimed at driving growth and boosting investment across the region. Sign up to our Connacht Tribune Today daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Connacht Tribune within your account.

The joint plan, due to launch later this year following public consultation, will aim to grow the regional economy - currently valued at more than €16.4 billion - while strengthening Galway ’s case for future government funding.

According to Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber, the initiative is important because ‘Galway operates as a single economic engine’.

“Working collectively as One Galway One Voice makes us stronger as a destination,” she said.

“Galway Chamber has contributed to the strategy and recognises the importance of a joint strategy for Galway City and County Councils.

“By bringing the city and county together under one coherent vision, we remove artificial divides, strengthen our collective offering, and create the conditions for sustainable, inclusive growth across the entire region.”

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Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council , Cllr David Collins (FG), said the strategy will help drive growth, investment and opportunity across the west, and that having one clear plan for the city and county is the right approach.

“It strengthens Galway’s hand when it comes to attracting investment and jobs , and helps make it an even better place to live and work ,” he added.

“It also means development won’t be focused in one area. Our towns and villages need to see that progress too. If we get this right, we can build a stronger, more balanced economy across the whole of Galway.”

The strategy will identify priority sectors, infrastructure needs and investment opportunities, along with the conditions required to support enterprise growth, job creation, talent attraction and balanced regional development.

It strengthens Galway’s hand when it comes to attracting investment and jobs

It will guide decision-making in areas such as enterprise and cluster development, while also shaping the investment needed to support future growth.

Wider place-based factors, including infrastructure, connectivity, research capacity, skills and sustainable development, will also be considered.

Galway County Council Chief Executive, Liam Conneally, said it will “send a clear signal to businesses that Galway city and county, as the economic engine of the region, is prepared and open for business ”.

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For Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard (Ind), it “reflects a strong partnership” and “a shared ambition for Galway”.

As part of the consultation process, Grant Thornton has developed a survey to gather views from stakeholders and residents on the economic future of Galway.

The consultation forms part of a wider programme of work led by Grant Thornton, including economic analysis, engagement with policymakers and stakeholders at local, regional and national levels, and consideration of broader macro-economic trends and their implications.

Cathaoirleach David Collins has called on the wider community to take part, acknowledging that while businesses are key stakeholders, the councils are also seeking the views of residents.

It reflects a strong partnership and a shared ambition for Galway

“I would encourage people to take part in the public consultation,” he urged.

“It’s important that the strategy reflects the views and needs of those living and working across the city and county, so we get it right for the years ahead.”

Chief Executive of Galway City Council Leonard Cleary said it represents a chance to shape the region’s future.

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“I am encouraging people to engage and have their say so that our councils will deliver a strong, ambitious plan for a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient region,” he said.

“This joint Economic Development Strategy is a real opportunity to shape Galway’s future - addressing today’s challenges while unlocking new opportunities for the years ahead.”

The survey invites feedback on Galway’s economy, including its strengths, challenges and the supports needed to enable future growth.

Public input will help shape the final strategy and ensure it reflects real experiences and priorities.

The online consultation period runs for four weeks and will close on May 22, 2026.

Related topics: Galway Government Galway County Council Jobs People Business Residents Mayor Galway City Council Grant Thornton Work Community Sign up to our Connacht Tribune Today daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Connacht Tribune within your account.