Eugene Murphy (Roscommon-Galway, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There are three major national primary routes through the county of Roscommon, namely, the N4 from Carrick-on-Shannon to Boyle which leaves a lot to be desired, the N5 which cuts right through the centre of the county where I live and the N6 from Athlone to Ballinasloe which, in fairness, has been quite well developed. All Members know there are plans for the N4 and N5. However, the hold-up in the work on the N5 is extremely concerning. On numerous occasions in this Chamber, I have raised with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Ross, by way of Topical Issues and otherwise, the safety issues on the N5. It crosses Roscommon from Termonbarry on the Longford border to Ballaghaderreen on the Mayo border. Yesterday evening, there was another serious accident, this time at the village of Tulsk. It is lucky that I am not standing here extending sympathy to a family. There are serious ongoing issues with the junctions along that road. I am pleading with the Tánaiste to go back to the Minister and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, on this issue. I do not want an answer referring to the proposed bypass. In the meantime, we need safety measures. What price can be put on a life? The safety measures can be put in place. People are deeply concerned by this issue.

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