Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I see the Deputy's point but it goes back to funding. That is the problem and a compelling case has to be made if anything of that nature is to qualify for funding. I would very much like to help the Deputy.

The National Roads Authority procured consultants in 2001 to carry out a strategic study of the development of an east-west link road. The consultants were to report on the merits and demerits, if any, of such a route with a recommendation for a preferred route corridor or corridors. The report concluded that an east-west link route was viable and justified and concluded the most feasible solution was to make use as much as possible of the existing network of roads. The stated objectives of the project were to address the deficiency in the transport network in the region and help connect the local population to the gateway town of Dundalk, the hub town of Cavan and the key transport corridors. These objectives were highly laudable, to reduce the travel times and improve access to regional, national and international markets as well as education, employment and other services and to deliver an improved road network in a cost-effective manner while minimising adverse environmental impact.

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