William Aird (Laois, Fine Gael)

We do not need consideration; we need money. This road is vital to redirect HGVs coming from Rosslare to the west of Ireland. We are trying move this traffic away from residential areas, schools and hospitals. This route is also essential to future-proof Portlaoise for sustainable growth under the national planning framework. Without this orbital route, development is hindered, traffic continues to choke the town and emissions increase. It is clear that inclusion of the Portlaoise northern orbital route in the revised national development plan is needed now.

The bypass needed in Mountmellick is equally important. Mountmellick has suffered severe traffic bottlenecks for years especially during the school rush hour. This is more than an inconvenience; it is a safety issue. The main streets in Mountmellick were never designed to carry the present volume or weight of traffic, including articulated lorries and agricultural machinery. The lack of a bypass affects the town's viability, slows economic development and poses safety risks to pedestrians and cyclists. It also affects regional connectivity, which we spoke about, between Tullamore, Portlaoise and surrounding areas. A Mountmellick bypass has been on the agenda for decades. It is time to move it into action.

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