The gridlock on the N11-M11 has reached a breaking point and the Government's failure to act is a complete disgrace. In 2022, the Government pulled funding from this critical upgrade to the N11. Wicklow's population has skyrocketed in recent years and yet there has been little or no investment in key infrastructure, jobs or public transport. People have no choice but to rely on their cars because the Government has failed to provide viable alternatives. Commuters are trapped for hours in gridlock every morning and evening. They are missing work, school and vital medical appointments because our transport system simply is not fit for purpose.

In the programme for Government, the Government states it will invest in all road projects on the current national development plan. The N11 upgrade is in the plan. Wicklow cannot wait any longer for this upgrade. The Government must immediately reinstate the funding to allow the upgrade for the N11-M11. When will the funding allow for that critical infrastructural project to proceed?

As I said earlier, the Government will update the national development plan. We hope to have that ready by July and roads will be a part of it. We are conscious of the serious congestion issues and delays for people on the N11. We will also be investing in public transport, which is very important for the future sustainability of transport. There will be a parallel approach comprising roads, public transport and active travel.