Central Bank Commission meets with organisations across Galway

Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf, and members of the Central Bank Commission, met with organisations across Galway during an outreach visit to the region.

The visit is part of the Central Bank’s outreach programme to hear the views of people from across Irish society to inform its work.

During the course of the two-day visit, held on Monday and Tuesday, Central Bank officials engaged with local business, entrepreneurs and community organisations. The Central Bank Commission also convened for a meeting, hosted on the University of Galway grounds.

Governor Makhlouf met with representatives from Galway Rural Development where he explored issues relating to rural enterprise, social inclusion and community development. He visited the Green Bean Café, a social enterprise in Athenry that empowers young people with disabilities.

Mary-Elizabeth McMunn, Deputy Governor for Financial Regulation, visited the Druid Theatre where she discussed the economic benefits of the creative and cultural industries for the Irish economy.

Vasileios Madouros, Deputy Governor for Monetary and Financial Stability, met with leaders from nebuliser technology manufacturer Aerogen, where they discussed the changing global supply chain.

Marcella Flood, Chief Operations Officer, met with space tech company Mbryonics to understand the latest developments in manufacturing and wireless communication technology.

At the University of Galway, Governor Makhlouf and Deputy Governor Madouros participated in a question and answer session with students, chaired by Professor of Economics Alan Ahearne. 

Speaking after the visit, Governor Gabriel Makhlouf said: “It’s important for the Central Bank of Ireland to listen and engage with people in the real economy to inform our work, particularly at this time of uncertainty. We heard a diverse range of perspectives from the organisations we met in Galway, which adds a richness to our understanding of the economy. We discussed the economic outlook, and the need to build economic and financial system resilience against an uncertain international backdrop. Galway is one of the largest regions in Ireland, with a strong economy and a vibrant business environment. It’s a prominent hub for cultural, technology and direct investment, so it was insightful to learn about the growth opportunities and challenges, across a range of sectors, in the current environment.”

ENDS

Further information

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Martin Grant: [email protected] / 086 078 7868