Dempsey endorses ‘Atlantic Way’ priorities

TRANSPORT Minister Noel Dempsey has given his backing to the infrastructure priorities of the Atlantic Way 2020 vision document.

Mr Dempsey spent yesterday meeting various interest groups in the region, including chambers of commerce and representatives of the Hotels’ Federation.

The ‘Atlantic Way 2020’ represents the priorities required to accelerate the economic and social development along the Atlantic Way, which embraces the western regions.

Its priorities include the completion of the N18 and for Shannon Airport to be an autonomous, fully resourced international airport, with a base for US customs and border protection

Paul O’Brien, chief executive of the Atlantic Way, said: “Minister Dempsey’s endorsement and support of the key infrastructure priorities today shows there is strong political will and support behind these critical priorities.

“Atlantic Way 2020 offers a blueprint for future planning and development, which, if accepted and implemented, will secure the economic and social success of the Atlantic Way as a model region”

Chairman of the Atlantic Way, Brian O’Connell, said: “There has been fantastic support within the region for the creation of the Atlantic Way 2020 document.

“A key objective is that this will be seen and interacted with as a working, community document for everyone within the Atlantic Way.”

Atlantic Way is a voluntary organisation that seeks to foster co-operation between business, education, government and community groups.

Established in 2005, the Atlantic Way is made up of leaders and decision-makers in the public and private sector. The aim is to enhance, accelerate and maximise economic and social development by planning, implementing and promoting together regionally.