A unique fund set up 20 years ago to invest public money in West of Ireland-based businesses has generated a return of almost two-and-a-half times its original value and helped provide Ireland’s economy with a €3.3 billion boost, new research has revealed.

CEO of the Western Development Commission Tomás Ó Síocháin has said the future is bright for the region and praised the collaboration across Western counties between key stakeholders in 2021 despite the years challenges. The comments come as the agency announce one of their most successful years to date. 

The Department of Community Development, Natural Resources and Digital Development, has announced an investment of €300,000 for enterprise hubs along the Atlantic Economic Corridor, including Clare, to help them implement measures to reopen in compliance with public health guidelines as the economy recovers from the impact of COVID-19.

The Western Region Audiovisual Producer’s Fund (WRAP) Fund has announced a number of new projects which are expected to generate in excess of €16.8m across the West.