Western Rail Corridor would be 'critical' for job creation

A Mayo councillor has said that a significant number of jobs will be created if the Western Rail Corridor (WRC) is fully reopened.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Martin McLoughlin made his comments after members of the Economic Development, Enterprise Support, Planning and Marine strategic policy committee received a presentation on the West Regional Enterprise Plan from programme manager Helena Deane, who works with the Western Development Commission (WDC).

She told members that the WDC, alongside Ireland West Airport and Enterprise Ireland, worked to conduct an investigation on how to make the strategic development zone (SDZ) at Knock Airport an enterprise hub. They also aim to create more jobs in the western region.

Cllr McLoughlin, who is a member of West on Track, says that the WRC would be a key piece of infrastructure in job creation.

“Businesses are looking for years for the WRC to reopen, not just for freight but for passengers. It’s a piece of critical infrastructure, that would serve job creation and save jobs in the area,” Cllr McLoughlin said. 

“I’m delighted to say that the opening of the second phase of it is almost in the national review. It’s currently at a draft stage and the reason for that was because Stormont wasn’t sitting but they are now.

“I’m looking forward to the opening of the second phase, from Athenry to Claremorris, that’ll also serve Sligo. You mentioned about the SDZ at Knock Airport and their chief executive, Joe Gilmore, has said it is critical for the sustainability of that SDZ that a railway connects to it.”