The programme for Government makes specific reference to the need to create more jobs outside Dublin. There was a very positive announcement yesterday on the creation of 100 new jobs in Sligo. I acknowledge the involvement of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys, and thank her and her Department, IDA Ireland and AbbVie for the wonderful announcement. There will be an investment of €130 million in Sligo. It is also important to note, however, that a number of jobs have been lost in Sligo and Ballyshannon in the past few months. Given that the roads capital plan has just been announced, does the Tánaiste agree that road infrastructure is vital in helping to create new jobs in the north west? Will he outline the efforts the Government is making in that regard? Will he lend his support to the calls made to have Sligo designated as a centre of growth in the development plan to 2040?

Undoubtedly, in the future Sligo will be and needs to be a major driver of growth in the north west. In terms of the provision of investment to make sure this will happen, phase 2 of the western distributor road project in Sligo which will open up an IDA Ireland greenfield site for new investment was recently announced. There is a total investment of over €130 million in roads in Sligo included in the capital plan. There are some significant projects which are about planning for future growth and expansion to ensure Sligo will be able to fulfil its potential, including in terms of the regional impact it can have in the north west. I expect a lot of positive news for people in Sligo in upcoming plans.