On page 46 of A Programme for a Partnership Government, under road investment, the Government promised to increase the budget for local and regional roads by 50% in the years ahead. Almost three years after A Programme for a Partnership Government was commenced, the conditions of many of our local and regional roads are appalling. In west Cork, we are continuously fire-fighting with our roads by spending some funds on roads damaged after bad weather. In 2017, an announcement was made which stated that funding was in place for the extension of the Bandon bypass. Government politicians were patting themselves on the back with this announcement but we are now two years on and not a sod has been turned.

What has happened since then? The answer is nothing. West Cork is tired of false announcements without any follow-up. What are the commencement and completion dates for the Bandon bypass?

The budget for roads is increasing considerably this year. However, it is also open to local authorities to use their income from rates, property tax and other sources to fund projects. I do not have any information to hand regarding the Bandon bypass. If the Deputy wants to raise it either when questions are being taken by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport or as a Topical Issue matter, I am sure he will receive a detailed reply.