I am looking for an update on the progress of the N20-M20 Cork-Limerick motorway project. I emphasise the critical importance of its swift delivery to the people of Munster and the broader Irish economy. The case for immediate action on the N20-M20 project could not be clearer. The existing route is a relic of a bygone era, and is wholly inadequate for the demands of a modern economy. Every day that passes without progress on this motorway is another day that the commuters and families who pass through Mallow, Newtwopothouse, Buttevant, Ballyhea and Charleville endure the nightmare of heavy traffic thundering through their town and village centres. Lives are put at risk on a route that has well-documented safety deficiencies. The national development plan clearly identifies that the N20-M20 project is an essential piece of infrastructure. I hope that when the review of the national development plan is published, it will set out in black and white that we should proceed without any further delay on this vital project. I am looking for an update on the project, please.

I thank Deputy O'Shea for raising this important issue for his constituents. The N20 is a strategically important route. The proposed project aims to enhance regional accessibility, to improve the network, to connect the cities of Cork and Limerick, and to improve connections to west Cork and Kerry. It will really help to allow balanced regional growth and development. The N20-M20 Cork-Limerick project will provide much better connectivity between Ireland's second and third largest cities, as well as other towns along the route including Buttevant, Croom, Charleville, Mallow and Blarney. As the Deputy said, it will address safety deficiencies on the existing route. It will also deliver active travel infrastructure along the corridor. I am very supportive of this project, as I know the Deputy is. My understanding is that the scheme's preliminary business case is expected to be submitted to the Department of Transport in early 2026. I believe the Department allocated €4.5 million to Limerick City and County Council to progress the scheme during 2025. We will keep a close eye on this. The national development plan will provide an opportunity to accelerate funding for crucial infrastructure projects like this one.