Minister of State at the Department of OPW and Flood Relief, Seán Canney TD, has congratulated the team behind Galway’s successful bid to be Europe’s Capital of Culture 2020.

‘The announcement of Galway’s success on Friday afternoon gives a tremendous boost to the city, county and wider region. This will allow authorities to access European and government funding to host cultural events throughout the year. It is estimated that it will be worth €170 million to the city and region in terms of funding and tourism, which will be a tremendous boost to tourism jobs in the city.

‘I would like to compliment everyone involved in this bid, and especially the many volunteers who helped out, both in the city and in many communities across the county.
This is a real good news story for Galway and surrounding areas. Half of the events involved will happen in rural areas. The theme of Galway’s bid was ‘making waves’ and I am sure that the 500 events planned for 2020 will be a fitting tribute to the unique culture of Galway.’