Next Government 'must prioritise' N52 Tullamore to Kilbeggan road upgrade

Fianna Fáil TD for Offaly Tony McCormack has said it is imperative the next government prioritises the delivery of the N52 Tullamore to Kilbeggan Link Road and ensures that Offaly receives its fair share of Just Transition funding.

He said: “I have consistently highlighted the importance of delivering the N52 Link Road. Its delivery is absolutely necessary to address the issue of road safety in Offaly.

"What we have at the moment is a dangerous situation for both the local community and commuters. There are serious dangers presented by the N52 between the N4 intersection at Kilbeggan and the Tullamore bypass, as the road is catering for thousands of vehicles more than its intended capacity.

"Delivering the N52 Link Road would tackle these dangers.

"With the new government, there must be a complete overhaul of roads investment that leads to improved delivery on projects critical for road safety, including the N52 Link Road."

Deputy McCormack also said the next government must see an improvement in the Just Transition funding allocation process.

He said: "What is of huge importance for the people of Offaly is that they are able to experience the benefits of the Just Transition in terms of new employment and new economic opportunities.

"This is because our county is the one most impacted by Just Transition. Towns and villages were decimated, jobs and livelihoods were lost here with the acceleration of decarbonisation by Bord na Móna and the ESB having severe impact on peatlands.

"What I am calling for is that to be reflected in the distribution of funding.

"The next government must take the opportunity to review how Just Transition Funding is allocated and its outcomes at both National and European level to ensure our county gets its fair share."