Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for coming to this debate. The national development plan is important to all of us. I regret what the plan states about the N20 and M20. When Project Ireland 2040 was launched by the previous Government in 2018, it referred to the M20. In this plan, it refers to the N20 and M20. I cannot reiterate enough how important this road link is. I recently met someone who had to go by ambulance from Limerick to Cork and it was not a pleasant experience. The road needs to be built. I welcome that much is said about the rail link. One thing that is not given much emphasis is the rail link from Limerick to Adare. The Ryder Cup is coming in 2026. I know that a feasibility study is to be done about the rail link in Limerick, whereas it is mentioned that rail links will be built in other cities, including Dublin and Cork. I would like to see a link to Shannon Airport. I agree with Senator Gavan about the Ballybrophy line. Many people travel to Limerick daily. Eight miles of the line are left to be upgraded. It does not make sense to upgrade it so far and then leave eight miles for the next time. It would be beneficial if this could be committed to. Regarding the Limerick 2030 plan, the Living City initiative is about getting people back into our city centres. These are important things that have to be committed to under this plan.