Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed confirmation that an agreement has been reached to resolve judicial review proceedings relating to the planned redevelopment and expansion of the Port of Galway.

The agreement follows the granting of planning permission earlier this year for the major redevelopment project.

Minister Canney said the resolution was a significant development for Galway and the wider western region.

“This is very positive news for Galway and an important step forward for a project that has been in development for more than a decade.

“The Port of Galway has enormous potential to support economic growth, trade and investment across the west of Ireland. This redevelopment will provide modern port infrastructure, accommodate larger vessels and strengthen Galway’s maritime connectivity.

“As Minister with responsibility for Ports, I recognise the importance of having the infrastructure in place to support our future economic needs and ensure our ports can continue to develop and compete.”

Minister Canney said the agreement was another positive development for Galway, coming just a week after agreement was reached to resolve the final judicial review relating to the Galway Ring Road.

“These are two major infrastructure projects that are vital to Galway’s future development. Progress on both is hugely significant for the city and the wider western region.”

The port project will see the creation of a new deepwater port to the east of the existing harbour, including the reclamation of approximately 27 hectares of land, new dock facilities, breakwaters, and supporting infrastructure.

The development will enable larger vessels to access the port without tidal restrictions and will allow for the relocation of port activities away from the inner dock.

This, in turn, will support the regeneration of the existing docklands into a new mixed-use urban quarter, including residential, commercial, amenity and recreational space, better connecting the harbour with the city centre.

Minister Canney also confirmed that work is underway on a revised National Ports Policy, which is expected to be published before the end of this year.

“The revised National Ports Policy will set out the strategic direction for the development of Ireland’s ports into the future.

“Galway Port has an important role to play in supporting the economy of the western region, and this redevelopment represents a major opportunity for the city and the region.”