O’Rourke chasing answers on major projects

A CALL for immediate progress on on the Navan line, the Slane Bypass and the Kilmoon Cross to Rath Roundabout upgrade was made by Deputy Darren O'Rourke last week at a meeting with Department of Transport officials. The Sinn Féin spokesperson on Transport called for the three projects to be prioritised and included in the upcoming National Development Plan review.

The Meath East TD said: "I had a very constructive three-hour meeting with the senior management team from the Department of Transport this week.

"I took the opportunity to seek an update on key infrastructure projects in Meath, including the Navan rail line, Slane Bypass and Kilmoon Cross to Rath Roundabout upgrade.

"With a review of the National Development Plan currently ongoing, I stressed the need for these projects to be included and advanced under the updated plan.

"These projects have been sitting on the shelves of the Department for far too long and need to be acted on now.

"The re-establishment of the Navan rail line must be included in the review of the National Development Plan. This project will transform our county. It will benefit commuters, businesses and our environment and take thousands of cars off our road each day.

"The Slane Bypass and Kilmoon Cross to Rath Roundabout projects are essential to improve connectivity to Dublin and Derry, removing congestion and improving safety in Slane village, and reducing the commuting nightmare on the N2.

"Sinn Féin will be making a comprehensive submission to the Government review of the National Development Plan. I would call on all other Meath Deputies and Senators to ensure they make a submission calling for these long overdue projects too. Now is the time to act.

"For too long Meath has been at the back of the queue. It is time we got our fair share," he said.