Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I fully agree with the Taoiseach that public transport is the solution and locating infrastructure near transport corridors is the only way forward. As Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport, I can confirm that my committee is considering this matter and we have met the National Transport Authority, NTA, and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, to identify what issues need to be addressed. The national development plan is fantastic and provides a solution but the situation will worsen in the meantime. The average speed on the M1 ranges between 90 km/h and 100 km/h, regardless of the time of day, which is a significant issue that we must address. While I appreciate that work is being done on policy, we need to ensure the relevant bodies move much faster.

Yesterday, my committee visited the site of Na Fianna GAA club, which forms part of the MetroLink proposal. This is a major project which will cost €3 billion and will transport 50 million passengers every year. I disagree with the decision to locate the drill hole at the Na Fianna club grounds which is the only green space in the area and part of the vibrant life of the local community. I urge State bodies, when they plan facilities, to listen and understand. Our job as a committee is to ensure there is constructive engagement on these issues and that solutions are found.