Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her reply. Again, I wish to reiterate the point that while there are statutory processes to be gone through in respect of Transport Infrastructure Ireland's responsibilities in that regard, it is important to state that there is considerable political capital in delivery of roads. That political capital comes from the fact that Government decisions are made in respect of infrastructural projects like roads throughout the country. I am again calling on the Government, once the consultation period has ended, to move to the next stage so that moneys can be assigned to carry out this project.

I welcome the fact that there will be a review of the national development plan. I acknowledge that but I am hopeful and optimistic that this Government will recognise the relief road from Mallow as being a key project given Mallow's location and centrality in the province of Munster.

We are talking about regional development and inward investment. We are talking about opening up the south-western region in the context of a keynote project like the M20 Cork to Limerick road. If we go on an east to west trajectory then it is vital that the town of Mallow does not get left behind in that analysis.

Notwithstanding the response of the Minister of State, which I appreciate, and the fact that there are environmental impact assessment reports and compulsory purchase orders to be gone through, I am asking for the Minister of State to give this her utmost priority.

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