Fine Gael TD for Mayo, Alan Dillion has called on the government Cabinet approval on the construction of the N5 upgrade from Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue.

Stressing the importance of this road for County Mayo and the Western region, Deputy Dillon said: "What the people of Mayo and Roscommon need and require now is an assurance from the Government that this project will not slip down the political agenda.

"What I am seeking from Minister Ryan is an assurance that this project will be brought before members of Cabinet for approval without delay and that Roscommon County Council can progress swiftly to construction.

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"The delivery of this project will enable economic development in the West of Ireland, while greatly enhancing connectivity within the region, as well as improving the link between the midlands and the West of Ireland.

"I have recently met with many representatives from IBEC West, the Mayo Industries group,  Knock Airport and a number of SMEs who continue to express the importance of high-quality road infrastructure for the efficient exportation of Mayo's 'huge volume of high-quality produce' and the need to rebalance opportunities by enhancing regional accessibility and strengthening rural economies and communities."

Deputy Dillon added: "In the context of a whole of Government review of the National Development Plan later this year, the N5 must remain a key priority in the Plan's future programme.

"I am hopeful and optimistic that the Cabinet will recognise and approve the N5 road upgrade from Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue as a key strategic project for the West, given the importance of regional balanced investment and its centrality in the province of Connaught."