John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)

When built, this will help visitors in County Donegal and the entire north west to create new employment opportunities and to open up the area for new investment possibilities.

I listened to some of the deficits outlined in respect of infrastructure and opportunities in County Donegal. I will outline some of the investments made by the Government. Substantial improvements in its road network and completion of significant upgrading to primary and secondary routes, coupled with completion of substantial town bypass projects have been key to improving access to the county. More than €228 million has been invested in the county's non-national road works since 2004, which has led to many smaller local road projects being undertaken. Investment in and ongoing support for flights at Donegal Airport by the Government has ensured the viability of air links to west Donegal, which is essential to attract investment to that part of the county. The work of Údarás na Gaeltachta, strongly supported by the Government, has seen new jobs created in Gaeltacht areas and in Gweedore Business Park in particular. The IDA, Enterprise Ireland and the county enterprise boards also have been key in support of business projects in the county and in job creation.

The Government will keep under review the moving of the writ for Donegal South-West.

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