Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator. As I mentioned previously, the N59 Clifden to Maam Cross improvement project remains on the list of projects included in the NDP. While funding has not been provided to progress planning and design of the scheme within the current year, subsequent phases will be progressed later in the plan. However, I agree with the Senator that these things should be kept alive. I will bring the Senator's views to the attention of the Minister. The project was originally part of the N59 Clifden to Maam Cross to Oughterard scheme, which was subsequently taken through statutory process as two separate schemes, Clifden to Maam Cross and Maam Cross to Oughterard.

The project, as part of the overall N59 Clifden to Maam Cross to Oughterard scheme, will provide 45 km of improved road and 12 km of greenway infrastructure, providing linkages to other sections of existing and proposed greenway, which will boost the tourism industry regionally, as set out as a national strategic outcome in the NDP. One thing for which we should all be thankful is the fact we are putting in more greenways along with these sections of improved road, but 45 km of improved road is desperately needed in an ever-growing area and an area of beautiful scenery as well. I hope this will be progressed as quickly as possible.