Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Browne for raising this issue. My ministerial colleague, the Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, has asked me to tender his apologies. He is caught up in a meeting. I welcome the opportunity to address the Seanad on the important issue of the national roads programme and to report on progress in implementing the upgraded programme provided for in the national development plan.