Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív has signed contracts for the construction of an airstrip in Clifden, Co Galway.
The €4.3 million scheme will facilitate the provision of air services between Inishbofin and the mainland.
The airstrip is one of several key infrastructural projects aimed at improving the quality of life on Ireland’s 30 inhabited islands.
L & M Keating Limited, Kilmihil, Co Clare have been contracted to build the airstrip, and consultants Thomas Garland & Partners will manage the project.
At the signing of the contracts today, Mr Ó Cuív said he was confident that this airstrip will be a major driver for economic development in the region.
“Just as air access to the Aran Islands has had a huge impact on the social and economic fabric of south Connemara, I believe we will see the same benefits in North Connemara as a result of this project,” he added.
