Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Michael Fitzmaurice expressed his disappointment at the lack of serious commitments for infrastructure in the west of Ireland in the Government’s newly published National Development Plan.
Having reflected on its contents, Fitzmaurice noted: “Given the fanfare surrounding the publication of this document and the level of funding outlined in it, it gives the impression of a child writing to Santa at Christmas – but I fear we may be left disappointed on Christmas morning when it comes to some projects.
“What frustrated me the most is the complete lack of serious commitments for much-needed infrastructure in the west of Ireland.
“The document outlined yet another review of how the Western Rail Corridor could revitalise the region. How many reviews and reports need to be compiled before action is taken? We have been at this stage countless times in the past.
“Where are the commitments for the N26 or the extension of the M17 motorway beyond Tuam. There are countless projects in the Sligo and Donegal in similar positions.
“The people of the region need concrete dates of when projects will be started, such as the connection between Castlebar and Mullingar.
“If you take Galway Port for example. We are still awaiting decisions there, with no clear path of where it is going in the future.
“There is so much talk from Government about putting wind turbines off-shore and constructing a light rail system in Dublin, which is another project which could face farcical delays in reality despite promises.
“The time for reviews and reports has long passed. The people of rural Ireland need concrete commitments when it comes to crucial pieces of infrastructure to improve connectivity in the region,” he concluded.
For further information contact Michael Fitzmaurice at 086-1914565