Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Taoiseach stated at the national economic dialogue yesterday that shovel-ready projects need to be started now and cited the lack of capacity to spend the money available for capital projects. The western rail corridor is a shovel-ready project. I was really glad to hear the Taoiseach say that, but, yet again, there are only vague commitments to increasing regional connectivity in the NRP. The Taoiseach mentioned the five "d's" in his speech yesterday. There were four originally, and then one was added a bit later on. The first two were related to demographics. Since the rail line to which the project in question was closed in the 1970s, the population of Connacht and of the towns located along its length have increased by 220%. In terms of decarbonisation, transport is the only sector in Europe that is experiencing net increases in emissions. We have significant opportunities for growth potential in the green economy along the western seaboard if only we had the necessary infrastructure. The western rail corridor has become a byword for regional development and investment in the west.

What I am really concerned about - maybe the Taoiseach can clear this up - is that there are mixed messages coming from the Government. The relevant Green Party Minister is going to the west and making declarations that part of the line to Sligo could be used for something else. It is important that the Taoiseach stand over his words that shovel-ready projects that can be started immediately are commenced and that we fulfil all of the "d's" that were outlined as priorities yesterday.

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