It's not just construction firms that are being disappointed by the news that the proposed Metro North project in Dublin is being mothballed.

Sinn Féin Transport Spokesperson Dessie Ellis has said the decision to scrap the Metro North project is not good for Dublin or Ireland.

He said the decision by Minister Leo Varadkar will be a blow for those hoping to find work on the project.

The Dublin North West TD said: "This decision will put an end to a process which started with the publication of Transport 21 back in 2005. Six years later, with massive consultation having taken place and in excess of 150 million euro being spent from the public purse it is to be abandoned. This is not good for Dublin or for Ireland and will be a blow the many people who had hoped to find work on the project."

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Sinn Féin believes Metro North would be good for businesses and would create thousands of jobs.

Mr Ellis continued: "It would cut traffic congestions making Dublin a better place to visit and an attractive place for foreign investors using Dublin Airport.

"The project also offers a great opportunity for continued development of areas like Ballymun and provides a link to Dublin City University, St. Patrick's College, Mater Hospital, the Helix and Axis theatres, Swords Pavilion and many cultural and commercial hubs.

"The RPA's cost benefit analysis proved that this project was worth the considerable investment and the current climate for the construction industry means that the work required is better value than ever envisaged. Other projects under consideration are not shovel ready and do not offer the wide ranging benefits to the city that Metro North does."

(CD)