Since Ireland joined the EU in 1973, Waterford has benefited greatly from EU funding and programs.

• Infrastructure in the county has seen huge improvement, with recent support and co-financing on road projects such as the N9 and N25 upgrades, and the improvement of non-national roads across the county.
• Waterford Port and Harbour development received support including a €13 million loan provided by the European Investment Bank.
• The Waterford main drainage system received EU financial support and the Tramore sewage scheme benefited from €10 million in EU funds.
• Broadband infrastructure in the Waterford area has received a significant boost as a result of EU funding in the county.
• Village and urban renewal schemes, and the EU supported LEADER program, have boosted the quality of life of people across the county and have helped to diversify the rural economy.
• Between 2000 - 2008 some €19 million was invested in Waterford to improve childcare facilities throughout the City and County.
• The European Social Fund has benefited Waterford by investing in the county’s people through youth programs, adult education, employment initiatives and many more schemes.
• WIT has also benefited from EU financial support, with a contribution to the construction of the Tourism and Leisure Studies building.
• The Waterford City and County Enterprise Board, which have received EU funding, have helped start-up and growing businesses in the Waterford area.

Click here to read the full Waterford County Report (pdf).