Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise the crucial issue for Limerick of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road. I am sure that many Members will have heard about this over the past weeks. Let me begin by saying that anyone who knows Moyross will know that it is among the most socially disadvantaged and socially isolated communities anywhere in the State. There is a tremendously brave and united community there building and forging a better future for themselves and their children. The community is at a complete loss as to why this Government to date refuses to sanction the completion of this road.

Having met with the locals last week, they have emphasised their anger and distress. The school principal described to us how one of his most common experiences is saying goodbye to past pupils in cold graveyards. This community has been isolated from Limerick city. The road is about opening up this isolation. This road has been recommended since the 2007 Fitzgerald report. The road is in the programme for Government. However, only last week the Minister for Transport said they might build two thirds of the road. This completely misses the point about the opening up of the longest cul-de-sac anywhere in Ireland.

There is something truly offensive about a Minister coming down to the people of Moyross and effectively telling them that he knows better than they do about what is best for their community. I must be clear that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael need to stand up to their responsibilities today. They called for the road to be built. This is a collective Cabinet decision. Every day this decision is delayed is a day of further failure for the people of Moyross. I call for an urgent debate on the matter. I call for urgent action and I call on the Minister, Deputy Ryan, to do what everyone in Limerick wants him to do, which is to build the road.