Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Like you, Chairman, I welcome the delegation's contributions on this important subject. They have followed the high standard of presentations that were made in 2012 by the local authorities involved. The map of areas that are disadvantaged by not having good arterial routes covers an extremely large part of our national population. On the last occasion, Mr. Séamus Neely, gave a particular figure on the population of that area which was very high. Mr. McLoughlin mentioned the word "connectivity" which is so important in the context of regional economic development.

Deputy Seán Conlan and Councillor Eugene Cummins, along with our council colleagues in Monaghan, are very supportive of this project, as I am. As a representative of Cavan-Monaghan I will continue to support this necessary project which will bring big benefits to a large part of our island. We need to get it progressed as soon as possible. We have seen the advantages and importance of major road developments throughout the country. It goes without saying that I am glad to support the project.

Some months ago, Deputy McHugh, myself and some other members of the committee had meetings in Donegal and Derry on various aspects of economic, social and educational development. At each meeting the A5 issue arose, quite understandably, and valid points were made on the need to progress the project.

The economic returns will be very beneficial for the country.

I understood substantial funding had been earmarked under the Northern Ireland expenditure programme. My information may not be up to date but I later heard this funding was to be reallocated to other areas of public expenditure north of the Border. Has the position on this been clarified or am I incorrect? My colleague, Deputy Charlie McConalogue, has gone to another meeting but wanted to state that he fully supports the initiative, along with Deputies McHugh and Pringle, who are also from County Donegal. This project must be developed and the presentation today was important. Every forum available to the witnesses, at official and political level, must be used by them to ensure this stays on the agenda because it is a matter that should be progressed at an early date.