Mayo Senator calls for reintroduction of Immigration Investor Programme
Senator Mark Duffy has raised the possibility of reintroducing a modernised Immigration Investor Programme, highlighting its previous success in generating approximately €1.2 billion in vital investment for Ireland between 2012 and 2023. The programme previously demonstrated the tangible positive impact that targeted foreign investment can deliver for communities across the country.
With no direct replacement currently in place, Senator Duffy believes there is a clear opportunity to develop an updated investor scheme that would once again attract significant funding to support local development, sporting organisations, and community projects nationwide.
Speaking in the Seanad today, Senator Duffy said: “The Immigration Investor Programme showed what is possible when we harness foreign investment for the benefit of communities. “It delivered real results across Ireland. I believe we should examine how a modern version of this programme could once again bring substantial investment to support community facilities, sporting clubs, and local development projects that matter most to people on the ground.”
In Mayo, the programme provided substantial funding to key sporting organisations, including, Westport United – €2.8 million; Knockmore GAA – €2 million; Islandeady GAA – €3.6 million.
Senator Duffy noted that reintroducing a similar scheme could open new opportunities for many other clubs and organisations across Mayo, such as Ballina Stephenites, Ardnaree GAA, and numerous others that play a central role in community life.
“Additional investment of this kind could help fund new and improved facilities, upgrade infrastructure, and support the continued growth of grassroots sport in Mayo.
“Our county has much to gain – both economically and at community level – from increased investment like this. With smart policy making we can ensure that a scheme is created that protects our values and ensures that it’s not taken advantage of, while still delivering for communities” added Senator Duffy.