The turnout at a public information meeting held in Galway recently, focused on housing grants and government support, was described as ‘exceptional’ by the organiser, Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers, a European Election candidate for the Midlands North-West.

The event at The Connacht Hotel featured a panel of experts including Noreen McKenzie of Sherry FitzGerald Financial Services, Shane Murphy from Ashgrove Renewables, Niall Browne, Senior Partner at O’Donnellan & Joyce and Senator Mary Fitzpatrick, Fianna Fáil’s spokesperson on Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Each provided insights into the complex world of housing finance and sustainable living options. The information session provided advice on navigating government housing grants and the financial process of acquiring a home.

The attendance included Minister Anne Rabbitte TD, Senator Ollie Crowe, and Éamon Ó Cuív TD, Cllrs Alan Cheevers, Michael J Crowe, John Connolly, Peter Keane and Mary Hoade, along with local election candidates Josie Forde and Cillian Keane.

“The impressive attendance we’ve seen is a clear signal—Galway is ready to grow and the people are ready to support that growth,” said Senator Chambers. “We have to be ambitious for Galway and the wider region. Addressing our housing and transport issues is paramount. We’re aiming for a Galway that’s prepared to expand and flourish, ensuring it’s a beacon of development for the Western region.”

Senator Chambers highlighted Galway’s pivotal role in the National Development Plan as a regional growth centre. The plan was ambitious, with Galway’s population targeted to hit 120,000 by 2040. “To meet these goals, it’s critical we build sustainable housing, improve public transport, and press on with the Galway ring road and the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor,” she added.

Pictured: The attendance at the public meeting on housing in The Connacht Hotel last week.