Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government makes specific reference to the need to create more jobs outside Dublin. There was a very positive announcement yesterday on the creation of 100 new jobs in Sligo. I acknowledge the involvement of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys, and thank her and her Department, IDA Ireland and AbbVie for the wonderful announcement. There will be an investment of €130 million in Sligo. It is also important to note, however, that a number of jobs have been lost in Sligo and Ballyshannon in the past few months. Given that the roads capital plan has just been announced, does the Tánaiste agree that road infrastructure is vital in helping to create new jobs in the north west? Will he outline the efforts the Government is making in that regard? Will he lend his support to the calls made to have Sligo designated as a centre of growth in the development plan to 2040?

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