Ennis Chamber calls for tangible improvements to State infrastructure
Press Release:
26 June 2025
In its submission to the National Development Plan Review Ennis Chamber has issued a strong call to action for tangible improvements and greater accountability in the delivery of the State’s critical infrastructure.
Regarding the ongoing NDP review, Ennis Chamber focused on key areas including:
· Urgent improvements to state infrastructure (Water, Energy, Transport)
· Continued focus on productive solutions to our housing crisis
· Promotion of more balanced regional development to ensure equitable growth across all areas of the State
Local issues called out in the Ennis Chamber submission include urgency around publication of the long-discussed Designated Marine Area Plan (DMAP), to allow for future development of offshore energy off county Clare coast.
The upgrade of the electricity grid, particularly in supporting renewable energy and new developments.
The need for vacant housing stock to be activated and brought into use without delay.
A call for strategic investment in Shannon Airport to support economic growth, mobility, and tourism.
A dedicated rail link to provide fast reliable rail connection between Ennis and Shannon Airport to boost productivity, attract investment, and advance sustainability.
Commenting on Ennis Chamber’s submission to the NDP Review, Ennis Chamber President, Diarmuid McMahon said, “Side by side with a local crisis in housing is a local crisis with water. One of the two water treatment plants (Clare Abbey) serving Ennis is currently at capacity with no firm timeline available on when that situation will be remedied. Such deficiencies have a profound knock-on impact not only on housing but also on the quality of life for businesses and communities.
He urges, “The outcome from the current review of the NDP must lead to enhanced infrastructure and strengthened accountability for the agencies responsible for infrastructure delivery.”
Ennis Chamber CEO, Margaret O’Brien said: “We are living in contradictory times. Our economy is performing well, yet our workers can’t access housing, while the deficit in infrastructure is mounting. This is a national problem, echoed loudly here in Ennis.
Our local authority, Clare County Council, is getting to terms with the delivery of social housing, but there is a dearth of available affordable and private housing, particularly here in Ennis.”
The gap between strong economic performance and inadequate infrastructure is unsustainable and undermines our competitiveness. Reversing this trend through robust planning is essential to meet the needs of our predicted growing population.
Ennis Chamber’s message is clear, The NDP Review must deliver both infrastructure improvements and greater accountability. Failure to act will continue to stall progress across all critical growth areas and risk jeopardising the foundations of our future development.
Ends.
