An Taoiseach inspects Ballina Innovation Quarter
As part of his visit to Co. Mayo yesterday, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar inspected Ballina Innovation Quarter to report progress on its development.
Ballina-based Senator Michelle Mulherin issued an invitation to Taoiseach Varadkar, who also attended official functions at Ireland West Airport Knock and at Fort Wayne Metals in Castlebar.
“I am delighted to have been in a position to work with local companies and Mayo County Council to arrange a number of official functions to be attended by An Taoiseach, all which are positive news for the economic and social growth of Mayo,” said Senator Mulherin.
On a particuarly fine evening in north Mayo, An Taoiseach visited the Military Barracks site that will be transformed into a digital hub that could result in the creation of 200 jobs in Ballina town centre.
“Approval of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund funding by by the Minister for Housing, Eoghan Murphy, for the Ballina Innovation Quarter project is wonderful news for Ballina and the region.
“I have been working on securing this project for Ballina over a long period of time and pulled out all the stops to get it over the line.
“I was delighted to secure a commitment from the Taoiseach and Minister Murphy last December for the funding and development of the project under the Urban Regeneration Fund - Project Ireland 2040.
“The Ballina Digital Hub is further evidence of the commitment of the Fine Gael-led government to rejuvenate Ballina and north and east Mayo,” commented Senator Mulherin.
On a walkaround in the town centre, Taoiseach Varadkar was able to inspect what is an important part of Ballina's built heritage. Built in 1742, the Military Barracks redevelopment has the potential to unlock its tourism and cultural potential. The project has an overall estimated cost of €7m and €3.2m has already been allocated towards the delivery of phase one of the project, and Part 8 planning permission has been granted by Mayo County Council.
“Ballina Chamber of Commerce and local businesses played a crucial part in bringing this project to fruition and their support and enterprise will ensure Ballina is recognised as a place to start and grow a digital business,” noted Senator Mulherin.
“As a collaborative space for digital companies to scale and grow, Ballina Innovation Quarter will kickstart significant enterprise and entrepreneurial activity and increase the attractiveness of Ballina and surrounding communities for further investment.”
The chief executive of Mayo County Council, Peter Hynes, said the government's decision to support this project through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund shows a serious commitment to revitalizing the fortunes of Ballina and its hinterland of north and east Mayo.
“When delivered, the Ballina Innovation Quarter will significantly increase the attractiveness of Ballina and north and east Mayo from an economic perspective and will unlock significant enterprise and entrepreneurial activity.