Morley's Mouthfuls - This week on Galway Talks

We love talking about infrastructure in Galway and roads in particular. Even if for the most part it is giving out about inertia and long delays for vital projects.

There was a welcome boost right across the board this week in that regard with the announcement of the multi-billion euro revised National Development Plan. While there was debate between Government and opposition as to how much of this was brand new investment.

We will however have to wait until budget day to see what specific projects will have made it into the plan. The ring road (with ACP at the moment) should be there, along with other major projects, but can we see new major infrastructure announcements like the Claregalway bypass or a Gluas line for the city?

Speaking of the budget, we have been hearing there will be no once off cost of living supports but that does not necessarily mean you can expect much in the line of tax cuts.

The best case scenario Summer Economic Statement released by Government says that after taking into account the VAT reduction for hospitality to 9% there will only be half a billion to play with for income tax reductions.

Now, should the US impose tariffs for 30% on the EU, it is very uncertain what relief measures Government will have the will, or the purse strings to deliver. The hospitality sector for their part seem to view the statement with suspicion, arguing that certain quarters never wanted to reduce VAT.

The situation in Gaza has stayed to the forefront of news internationally, nationally and locally and we saw the horrifying scenes from hospitals in the region with dozens of children dying of starvation and malnutrition. Karol Balfe the CEO of Action Aid told us what the situation is like for volunteers and people on the ground.

We also had a great day out in London for our Community Matters series all about the Galway Diaspora in the UK Capital with thanks to Ireland West Airport. Next Friday it is the turn of Westside.