Coonagh to Knockalisheen road
Deputy Quinlivan congratulated Limerick's hurlers and then pressed for progress on the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road. The Tánaiste said he knew the project from his transport days, that the Minister was examining it, and that there were concerns about road-led development.
In part of the Ceann Comhairle's review of 2020 he told us how bizarre the world was. Bizarre was having the all-Ireland final in December. I congratulate the Limerick team on winning. It gave joy to everybody in Limerick and our diaspora across the world and, because of the amazing team it was, to all hurling fans everywhere.
I want to raise the issue of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road in Limerick city. Yesterday, among other contributions he made, the Taoiseach stated he is not expected to know about every roundabout or road in the State and that is fair enough. I agree with him. The Coonagh to Knockalisheen road is more than a road. It is a critical piece of infrastructure of the regeneration programme in the city. It is partially built and millions have been poured into it. Recently, I met the principal of the local school in Moyross. I have also met the late parish priest and the residents' association. I have been campaigning on this for a number of years. The road was supposed to be delivered in 2011. It is partially built. A further decision on it is awaited from the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, and I ask the Tánaiste to speak to him so he gives the approval for this to go ahead and end what is the biggest cul-de-sac in Ireland, which is the Moyross area. Open up the Moyross area and build the road.
Comment on this
I thank the Deputy. I am familiar with the road because, long ago, when I was Minister with responsibility for transport, I allocated the funding to get it moving, at least in terms of transport and planning. I know there is an active debate at present on this in the area. The Minister, Deputy Ryan, is examining the proposal. He does have some concerns about the prospect that it may result in further road-based development of the city and the city being developed into Clare. I know the people in Moyross in particular feel it will end their cul-de-sac status and would point to the fact it was promised as part of the regeneration. It is a matter with the Minister, Deputy Ryan, at present and it is being discussed.