Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

The Minister of State concurred with my point on the length of time it has taken to realise the project, given that the planning and design stage dates back to 2007. Approval was given by An Bord Pleanála for the Tuam bypass in August 2006 and a technical advisory consultant was appointed and commenced work in September 2007. The delay in proceeding with the project has been frustrating for people who live along the road and generally in the west. I hope the Minister of State will continue his discussions with the NRA to see whether approval can be given for the motorway project.

Suggestions have been made that funding could be forthcoming from investors in Europe. The Minister of State outlined there would not be a toll payable on the road, but media reports suggest otherwise and a toll plaza could be provided. Perhaps he might clarify whether there is to be a rethink on the matter? A toll plaza was not envisaged in the original proposal, but that was when the economic climate was better. I would be grateful if the Minister of State addressed the extra points I have made.

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