Ministers for Transport have welcomed confirmation that all judicial review proceedings connected to the Galway City Ring Road have been withdrawn following a period of constructive mediation.

The legal challenges related to An Coimisiún Pleanála's decision to grant planning consent for the road. Their withdrawal removes the need for a full High Court hearing and provides greater certainty for delivering the project, which is considered vital for Galway and the wider western region.

In July this year, the scheme was among the first transport projects designated as critical infrastructure under the Critical Infrastructure Act, 2026, a status that requires all public bodies to accelerate any decision-making processes associated with such projects.

Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien said: "I'm delighted that this mediation process has resulted in the withdrawal of the judicial review proceedings against the Galway City Ring Road. It means we can now look forward to the delivery of this transformative project. This Government places a high degree of importance on this project, demonstrated by its being the first road project in the State to be designated as critical infrastructure. Today's announcement is good news for the people of Galway and gives everyone much needed certainty about the next steps."

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Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, said: "Today's announcement is great news for the people of Galway and the wider region. I know how important this long-awaited project is in supporting the growth of Galway, as well as reducing congestion in the city centre and enabling the improvement of public transport and active travel. It will enhance regional connectivity enabling the efficient movement of people and goods. I congratulate everyone involved in bringing the mediation process to a successful outcome and look forward to seeing the delivery of this vitally important project."

Lorcan O'Connor, CEO of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), said: "The withdrawal of the final Judicial Review related to the Galway City Ring Road is a very welcome and significant milestone. This project is critical to Galway City and Galway County because it will address congestion, improve public transport options and enhance connectivity to the wider western region. While there are further steps ahead, today's development brings us much closer to delivering this vital transportation infrastructure project. TII looks forward to continuing to work with the Department of Transport, Galway City Council and Galway County Council to progress the scheme."