The future of housing, infrastructure and regional economic development in the Western region will be among the key topics at the CIF flagship annual Network West event in Galway city on 19 November.

Senior government and state agency representatives, leading economists, planners and construction industry executives will gather for the event, which will feature an opening address from Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Seán Canney.

The conference will examine how national, European and international economic trends are likely to shape construction activity in Ireland, with a particular focus on the opportunities and challenges facing the Western region. Discussions will also explore housing output, infrastructure delivery and the role of the construction sector in supporting sustainable regional growth and creating thriving communities.

Speaking ahead of Network West, Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney said: “The Western region has enormous potential, and delivering the infrastructure needed to support that growth must remain a priority. We have made significant progress on a number of major projects that will help shape the future of the region, most notably the Galway City Ring Road, which will be transformational for Galway, improving connectivity, addressing congestion and supporting the future development of the city and county.

“Alongside this, projects such as the expansion of Galway Harbour, BusConnects Galway and the advancement of the Western Rail Corridor will play an important role in strengthening regional connectivity, supporting businesses and creating new opportunities for communities.

“As someone from Galway, I understand how important these developments are to the future of our region. We need to ensure that infrastructure investment keeps pace with population growth, housing demand and economic ambition. Working together, Government, local authorities, State agencies and the construction industry can help deliver the homes, transport links and infrastructure that will allow the West to thrive.”

Speaking in the lead-up to the event, director of the CIF Western and Midland Region Justin Molloy said: “Network West has become an important fixture in the CIF Galway Branch calendar, providing a valuable opportunity to bring together the people and organisations shaping the future of the construction industry in the region.

“This year’s event will provide an opportunity to hear from leading economic and industry experts, explore the issues influencing construction activity and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the West. Just as importantly, it gives industry colleagues and stakeholders the chance to connect, exchange ideas and build relationships that can help support the region’s continued development.”

Chair of the CIF Galway Branch and director with Monami Construction Trevor Cavanagh said: “The West of Ireland has enormous potential, but realising that potential requires sustained investment, long-term planning and a commitment to delivering the homes, infrastructure and services that growing communities need.

“The construction industry has a central role to play in supporting regional development, attracting investment and creating opportunities for businesses and people across the West. Events such as Network West are important because they bring industry and decision-makers together to have meaningful conversations about what needs to happen next and how we can turn ambition into delivery.”

CIF Network West is sponsored by Unilin Insulation and Invennt.

Network West takes place at the Galmont Hotel, Galway city on Thursday, 19 November at 6pm. To reserve your place, please email bcody@cif.ie.

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