Taoiseach Michael Martin has highlighted the importance of Galway's Medtech sector in maintaining a strong relationship between Ireland and the US.
He made the comments last evening following the official opening of 2 new social housing developments in Ballinasloe which comprise 74 new homes.
Beforehand, he was given a tour of Scoil an Chroí Naofa, which finally has a new school listed for construction after a campaign spanning three decades.
Speaking to reporters, the Taoiseach said the 'medtech cluster' in Galway is one of the most important in Europe