The Government has agreed to the allocation of €200,000 in additional funding per year for two years to Mayo County Council to advance the development of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Ireland West Airport Knock (IWAK). The funding will be used to put in place dedicated project management, and subsequent engagement of external expertise, to prepare a detailed roadmap for the development of the SDZ.
Speaking following the conclusion of the Cabinet meeting, Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD, said, “this allocation of Government funding to Mayo County Council is an important further step in the development of the Strategic Development Zone at Ireland West Airport Knock. It also reaffirms the Government’s commitment to realising the potential of the SDZ, which can make a significant contribution to the economic development of Mayo, the Western region, and Atlantic Economic Corridor.”
“The Government has prioritised balanced regional development and the Knock SDZ is a big part of that with the potential to significantly drive regional economic development. We have more people living and working in rural Ireland than ever before and we will continue to ensure that people can avail of good job opportunities in the communities in which they want to live. I look forward to seeing the roadmap for this project and the recommendations of its Steering Group in due course. Thanks to all involved for their efforts to date and their work to bring real benefits to the region.”
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney TD, commented, “this is great news and I strongly support this new round of funding. I will be closely following the progress over the next two-years so we can get the absolute most for the West out of the strategic zone.”
