Adare bypass progress
Concern was expressed that the Adare bypass was delayed despite its importance for the Ryder Cup and local congestion. The Taoiseach said the project is part of Project Ireland 2040, does not yet need Cabinet approval, and promised a briefing from the relevant Minister.
I refer to page 38 of the programme for Government, dealing with infrastructure. The Adare bypass will form part of the Limerick-Foynes motorway. Adare Manor has been confirmed as the host of the 2026 Ryder Cup. I was led to believe that the planning application for the bypass was to go to An Bord Pleanála and that the environmental impact assessment and, possibly, compulsory purchase orders were to be published in the near future, subject to Cabinet approval. Has the matter been tabled to be brought before Cabinet? If so, when? I ask that it be prioritised given that it was expected to be done in October, having been delayed from March.
Comment on this
I thank the Deputy for raising the important issue of the Adare bypass. The Government is very keen to get the project done not just because of the Ryder Cup, but also in order that the beautiful town of Adare can be freed from congestion and people can travel to and from County Kerry more quickly than is currently the case. The bypass is included in Project Ireland 2040. I do not know the cause of any delay. The matter does not need to come to Cabinet until it is at business case stage. I will ask the Minister, Deputy Ross, to provide the Deputy with an up-to-date briefing.