Apple's decision to establish an €850 million data centre in the Athenry area will encourage other multi-nationals to consider locating in Galway, potentially leading to a major jobs boost for the county over the coming years.

This is the view of Independent Galway West TD Noel Grealish, who was speaking at an oral hearing conducted by An Bord Pleanála, where he gave his full backing for the 24,500sq metre facility proposed for Derrydonnell.

However he also called for "concerns raised by some local people" regarding the construction of the data centre to be "taken on board and addressed by Apple in a responsible way". Nonetheless he called on An Bord Pleanála to uphold the decision of the Galway County Council to grant planning permission.

"It is important the signal be sent out that the door is open, and that Galway is ready and willing to accommodate and facilitate companies interested in setting up a base here and bringing much-needed employment," he said.

Dep Grealish said that the Apple centre would bring a huge boost to employment in the immediate area and throughout the county.

“Apple looked at 25 sites all over Ireland before settling on Derrydonnell," he said. "The fact they found what they wanted here in Galway won’t unnoticed by the other big international players, who are sure to be looking at this area in any future expansion plans."