Heliport meeting urged over proposal for permanent heliport at a Shantalla park

Cllr Seoighthe sought clarification on the BusConnects plans for the area to ensure a dedicated bus route, either through or beside the hospital campus, and called for an immediate update.

Labour Cllr John McDonagh agreed that “it is time to get everyone in a room as this has been going on for far too long”.

He said Galway City Council was acting like a “headless chicken with the HSE” and argued that a meeting was the only way to gain clarity, particularly in relation to the BusConnects proposals.

“We need a frank and open discussion,” he said.

“Where are we going with the issue? This has been ongoing for the last 20 years. I have great difficulty in taking the HSE at their word.”

Fine Gael Cllr Frank Fahy said the situation was more like “ducks and drakes” and described how members of the HSE were “contacting councillors individually”.

“Different members are contacting different councillors,” he said.

“That’s why I call it ducks and drakes. We want an onsite meeting. I requested one and am still waiting.”

Mayor of Galway City Cllr Mike Cubbard (Ind) agreed that a special meeting involving all stakeholders – including the HSE, public representatives and the council executive – should be convened to discuss the issue.

He said he would bring the matter to the Corporate Policy Group.

The dispute dates back to 2013, when Galway City Council transferred public land in Shantalla to the HSE for six months to facilitate a temporary helipad for UHG.

The HSE is now seeking a permanent transfer of the land to develop a full heliport, including two landing pads and direct access to the hospital.

The proposal has triggered significant local opposition and has been described as a ‘land grab’.

Any permanent land transfer will need approval of councillors.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.