Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Walsh for the points he has made. I understand the concerns he has raised and acknowledge the huge progress being made by the Department in many areas in Galway. Whether in respect of transport or tourism, the Department has worked hard to support the good work under way in Galway city and County.

There is support for the objective described, to find a way to alleviate congestion that is growing increasingly severe. There is a process under way that allows for the public and other stakeholders to make submissions until the end of February in respect of route options. That process will afford the Deputy the opportunity to make an input if he believes that is appropriate. By raising this in the Dáil he is putting down a clear marker of his concerns about this matter and the negative effect he believes the project could have on the people he represents and the wider city and county.

This process is being led by the local authority. I have outlined my role, which is responsibility for all road policy in the country and working to deliver funding for projects prioritised by the NRA. I have to wait until the process in Galway city and county reaches a conclusion but I acknowledge the Deputy’s concerns about the matter and hope the process can be used to respond to matters of legitimate concern to many within the city and beyond.

See this speech in context