The SDLP has welcomed a commitment from Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, to increase funding for the A5.

Next week, the Taoiseach is set to bring an increased funding proposal for this road cabinet.

The party's West Tyrone MLA, Daniel McCrossan, said he is hopefully that the "long awaited announcement" on the A5 road network will be made soon and that he urges

the "Infrastructure Minister to waste no time in breaking ground".

In a statement Mr McCrossan said:

"Delivering the A5 has been one my main priorities and I have been engaging with the Irish Government on this for many years. During recent discussions the Taoiseach and Tánaiste have indicated to me that they would be willing to make a substantial contribution to building the A5. Through the many twists this project has taken the Irish Government has remained committed to offering whatever support possible. This upgraded road will not only be a boost for people in Tyrone, but for Derry and Donegal, the whole north-west of our island, and it’s only right that the Irish Government play their part.

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"Far too many lives have been lost on this road, I have campaigned alongside those who have been bereaved and their dedication to getting this delivered has been astounding. Without them we wouldn’t have gotten this far. The new road will also bring significant economic opportunities by improving our transport links, making it easier to attract much needed jobs and investment."