Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

We have had extensive discussions on this issue in a range of forums. I agree with the Deputy that the bypass of Tipperary town is exactly the sort of project that should be prioritised. I am encouraged that in the recent public consultation looking at the broader options for the upgrade of the N24 route, as I understand it, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, listened to the views expressed and did not rule out an immediate prioritisation of the bypass of Tipperary town as an example of what could be done. The N24 road can link into that as it is further upgraded.

The example given concerned the similar approaches taken in Cashel and Cahir, which worked very effectively. Therefore, I agree with the Deputy. Tipperary is an example of a beautiful and stunning Irish market town. We must bring life back to the centres of such towns. We must keep heavy goods vehicles out of them and bring back shopping and people to live in the centres of those towns. Tipperary town will thrive on the back of such developments.

See this speech in context