Mulcahy welcomes Exchequer funding for Motorway project

Good news on the N17/18 Route.  See my press release below.

Clare Senator Tony Mulcahy today (Wednesday, 27 February 2013) welcomed the Department of Public Expenditure's announcement that it has approved funding to cover the Exchequer element of the proposed motorway project between Gort and Tuam in Co. Galway.

The Fine Gael Senator said the commitment of 20 million euro as an initial deposit will enable the National Roads Authority to re-engage with the preferred private contractor to complete the new N17/ N18 route.

Senator Mulcahy said: “Despite the present tough economic climate and the consequent fiscal constraints faced by the exchequer, it is fantastic news for those who travel this route to see the Government investing in this project. I believe the green light has been given because of the scheme's strong potential to stimulate economic growth in the wider region.

“The road scheme forms part of the Atlantic Road Corridor and the Trans-European Road Network, while it is a strategic component of the national primary route network providing a high quality link between Dublin and the western region. It will offer direct benefits for the people of Galway and Clare by reducing journey times and more importantly by providing a safer route.

“The new scheme will especially make a big difference to those living in Claregalway, Ardrahan, Kilcolgan, Clarinbridge and the other towns and villages that will be bypassed by the road scheme. On completion, the scheme will further improve connectivity to Ennis, Limerick and Shannon Airport for people in Galway and Mayo in particular. It is expected that work on the project will get underway before the end of 2013,” Senator Mulcahy concluded.