Minister of State Ciaran Cannon says tech giant Apple remains committed to its €850m data centre in Athenry.

Mr Cannon says the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar met with Apple executives last week.

He says the confirmation "will bring reassurance to those who are deeply concerned" about the delay in construction at the site.

Apple was given the go-ahead for the project in February 2015.

However this has been delayed due to an ongoing legal case, taken by three objectors to the development.

Minister Cannon also says the Government is examining potential changes to the Strategic Infrastructure Act - to ensure the planning and legal system "works more efficiently" when dealing with applications of this type.

"I have been in regular contact with An Taoiseach on this issue as it is one of great concern to the people of Athenry and indeed, Co Galway.

"I'm pleased that An Taoiseach has also maintained contact with senior executives in Apple and that, as late as last week, they have confirmed their continued commitment to investing in Athenry", Minister Cannon said.

"This morning An Taoiseach has also confirmed to me that he has requested an examination of our planning and legal systems as they apply to large developments of this nature.

"The last thing we need in Ireland is a perception to develop internationally that our systems are incapable of dealing with large industrial developments and that delays of two or three years are commonplace."