Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Will the Leader ask the Tánaiste to come before us for an update on the situation regarding the task force for the Shannon Estuary? I raised this here previously. In the past six months, former parliamentarians, Michael Noonan and John Brassil, have been appointed chairman and vice-chairman, respectively. From that day to this we have heard nothing and people are concerned. We have the critical situation of the LNG terminal coming to a final decision on planning and, with changed awareness about the importance of gas, the Shannon Estuary will be more important than ever so we cannot be tardy. I ask the Leader to arrange for the Tánaiste to come before us.

Among the many important announcements in the NDP, I highlight the significant funding for collaborative cross-Border investment under the Taoiseach's shared island initiative. The Government's commitment of €500 million to the shared island fund will double over the coming years. Combined with Project Ireland 2040, the annual North-South co-operation and the PEACE PLUS programmes in partnership with the EU, the UK and the Northern Ireland Executive, a fund of €3.5 billion will be available. This has to be highlighted as it is important. The ambition is to create a more connected, sustainable and prosperous island for all and release the full potential of Border regions by enhanced connection between people across the island. All communities and traditions will benefit. Key projects include enhanced all-Ireland rail connectivity, co-ordinated investment in EV networks, funding for all-island climate actions, the creation of all-island research centres, developing third-level education infrastructure in the north-west region, creating an island-wide greenway network and the completion of the Ulster Canal restoration project and the Narrow Water Bridge project.

By working together, we can create a more regionally balanced island for all, achieve the unity that matters to most people, which is a unity of minds and purpose, and, hopefully, put an end forever to sectarian violence.