The Volvo Ocean Race is set to ‘prop’ Galway up as the first city in Ireland to recover from the recession, the local organisers have claimed.

And the local team that secured the Ocean Race finale and awards ceremony are also confident they can raise the balance of the €20 million funding required from overseas investors.

John Killeen, President of Let’s Do It Global said preparations for the “biggest ever grand finale” at Galway Docks in 2012 will send the city well on the way to economic recovery.

Moving the existing commercial docks to a proposed new wharf further out to sea at Galway Port is a key element in the recovery plan.

City Manager Joe MacGrath has already vowed the Council’s support to the organisers. And Fianna Fáil’s Mike Crowe – a party whip in the ‘controlling pact’ members on the Council – has also pledged support, along with Mayor Declan McDonnell.

Mr Killeen told the Galway City Tribune: “The dream is to move the commercial dock out. The Harbour Company already has a plan to develop the new Galway Port, and that is part of the plan.

“The new pier and wharf could easily be built on time. It’s a very real possibility, and it is one of the legacies that the Ocean Race could leave Galway ... a new city centre.

“When we wanted the oil tanks moved last time, that was a dream too, and we did it. That was nearly as big a project as moving the commercial dock would be, so it is possible.

“If Galway people get behind the project, we will be the first city in Ireland out of recession,” said Mr Killeen.

City Manager Joe MacGrath said: “We look forward to continuing to work closely with them and with the Volvo Ocean Race in preparing the city. This is a tremendous vote of confidence in the city of Galway and Galway City Council is committed to continuing to work with everyone to ensure that 2012 will more than equal 2009 with a spectacular finish to the race.”
 

For more on this story, see Pages 3 & 4 of the Galway City Tribune