Alison Comyn (Fianna Fail)

I welcome one piece of vital infrastructure in County Meath, although I am shocked another project just a couple of kilometres from County Louth will not be included in the national development plan. There is a widespread welcome for the green light given to the Slane bypass in County Meath. It is much-needed infrastructure that will save time and countless lives. I acknowledge the work done by one of my colleagues, Councillor Wayne Harding, to get it across the line.

There is genuine shock in Ardee, County Louth, that an eastern bypass of this busy town on the N2 is not included in the national development plan. Another one of my colleagues, Councillor John Sheridan, met with the Minister, Deputy Jack Chambers, in Ardee last week to discuss the inclusion of this local infrastructure project in a review of the national development plan. Public submissions were sought during June and the Minister acknowledged he was well aware of the traffic and infrastructure issues in Ardee, and assured him the matter would be taken into consideration. Ardee is a thriving town but the town centre is being choked by lorries and traffic. There is currently no way of bypassing the town. Unfortunately, this has a knock-on effect, with businesses being closed and students being delayed, as well as adding to vacancy and dereliction. This decision should be reviewed. I invite the Minister, Deputy Jack Chambers, to come to the House to debate why this vital of infrastructure for Ardee, County Louth, has not been included in the NDP.

On a much lighter note, I was delighted to see the progress being made at the Louth GAA stadium yesterday with the Minister of State, Deputy Charlie McConalogue. It is progressing beautifully. It is hoped we will have bottoms on seats in October 2026. Funding for the second phase is vital. I will be keeping the pressure on to make sure that happens. We will welcome as many fans as we can in the coming years.