Michael Collins (Cork South-West, Independent Ireland Party)

We are here today to discuss the final draft of the revised national planning framework, a crucial step towards Ireland's sustainable future. It is imperative that we address the acute infrastructure challenges in the areas of housing and transport. West Cork suffers from inadequate sewerage systems, particularly in areas like Dunmanway, Goleen, Shannonvale, Rosscarbery and Ballydehob. This makes even basic housing development impossible in some areas. The road conditions remain dire, with only €70.2 million allocated for maintenance in 2024. This is a slight decrease on the previous year and insufficient for the 12,000 km of road that need attention. Transportation is another critical issue. Despite the restoration of some bus routes in 2024, west Cork still lacks comprehensive public transport services. The absence of light rail, trains and frequent bus services exacerbates our isolation and limits economic opportunities. This lack of infrastructure and transportation services hinders growth and quality of life. We must advocate for strategic investment to foster sustainable developments in west Cork.

I am absolutely delighted Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan is here. As a newly appointed Minister of State, I hope that he will take on board what I am going to raise regarding infrastructure in Dunmanway. The fact is that people are not allowed to develop a house in a town as big as Dunmanway. That can is kicked down the road at every meeting we have. It is to go on to 2030 or 2032. We really do not know because Irish Water cannot give a clear deadline. The people in Dunmanway cannot wait until 2030 or 2032. We need delivery. The Minister of State knows that and he has to deliver. He is the Minister of State now and I am putting my faith in him to deliver for these people but also for the people of Rosscarbery, Goleen, Ballydehob and Shannonvale.

They have every right to have a proper wastewater treatment system in their communities and not have wastewater pouring into local community gardens where people have cordoned it off for the past 20 something years. It is outrageous.

It is the same with light rail. We do not have light rail going to west Cork. We do not even have a sign from west Cork showing where rail is in Cork city.

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