Paddy Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

At some stage, we should arrange for a debate on the national development plan. There will be major changes in the plan's costs because of inflation in the price of materials, diesel in most cases and, due to shortages, labour. I hope that the Deputy Leader will arrange for such a debate.

The collapse of Roadbridge is having a considerable effect on our area in Mayo as well as in Roscommon. What will happen to the Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge road? The work on this carriageway project is valued at more than €400 million. Will it be retendered? I hope that the Department will consider this significant and badly needed road into the west and act on it quickly. Roadbridge was also the main contractor at the Oweninny wind farm, which is the largest wind farm in the country.The ESB is the project leader and I have no doubt that it will sort out the matter in a short period. This infrastructure is also badly needed for energy provision in this country.

It has been brought to my attention that a sound barrier of only 1 m high will be provided for a housing estate in the Balloor area that is located very close to the Castlebar to Westport road. I hope that the builders of the road do not cut corners. I call on them and on Mayo County Council to make sure that the 1 m sound barrier is raised to afford greater protection to the houses. A proper road surface will be used to reduce noise but I call on the National Roads Authority to make sure that the barrier is raised.