Sinn Féin is supporting calls for the N28 Cork to Ringaskiddy road to be given priority in the capital programme.

MEP Liadh Ní Riada said it would bring huge economic advantages for Cork and surrounding area.

She said: "The potential for jobs is huge. I know that Cork Chamber commissioned a report that showed that up to 2,228 jobs could be directly created by an upgrade, with a huge multiplier effect on employment right across Cork.

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"I have been working closely with the Port of Cork in terms of accessing EU funding for developing their facility in Ringaskiddy, and one important caveat for me is that increased capacity at the port is matched by increased road capacity. This is a vital condition for residents and one which I support.

"I have been working on proposals in the European Parliament on blue growth and harnessing the potential of our marine and maritime sector. Upgraded road connectivity will facilitate the ongoing development of the IMERC maritime and energy research cluster, including the Beaufort Research Centre.

"Sinn Féin believes that a fair recovery is possible, but it must be balanced to ensure that the regions benefit. I am calling on the Government to ensure that the N28 Cork to Ringaskiddy gets the priority status that it needs."

(CD/JP)