Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

We should question whether objections are being made on foot of environmental concerns, or are emanating from an inner core of anti-globalisation interests within the organisations I have mentioned.

As someone from County Sligo, which is in the west of Ireland, I would welcome a debate on the issue of tolling. Senator Ulick Burke will acknowledge that I am a strong advocate of balanced regional development. It is great that a proposal to build a motorway all the way to Galway is being considered. No such proposals have been made in respect of Sligo. I look forward to the quality of the road as far as Kinnegad being extended as far as Sligo, regardless of whether it is tolled. We would welcome a debate on the matter.