Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister mentioned this project is part of the national development plan within the framework of Project Ireland 2040. We are mindful of the fact that the project needs to go through necessary approvals and that there are definite stages that need to be progress for us to physically see work progress on the project. The Minister has clearly outlined that work is under way to secure those necessary approvals, which we all know need to progress in a certain way. I would like to be kept updated on that work that is being done in the background. The Minister mentioned that the national roads regional office in Roscommon County Council is commencing the procurement of technical advisers to prepare the design and build tender documentation along with an archeologist in terms of the Rathcroghan area. That is positive but we need to know that there will be no delay in all these necessary works being put in place to ensure that the project can be delivered as quickly as possible for all of the reasons I outlined. I thank the Minister for the update.