Progress on the A5 North West Gateway road between Derry and Aughnacloy has been welcomed by a local MLA, following a €9m boost to the scheme from the Irish state.

Sinn Féin's Martina Anderson said there was concern amongst the business community that works would be adversely affected by the economic downturn.

She warmly greeted confirmation from Roads Minister Conor Murphy that not only is work on the project proceeding on time, but that €9m will be paid into the consolidated fund before the end of 2009.

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"There were obvious concerns especially amongst the business community that this project may have been jeopardised due to the economic recession but this announcement by Minister Murphy should reassures everyone that the project is safe and proceeding as planned," said Ms Anderson.

"The Irish Government has pledged to pay €9m before the next meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in December and with the second significant milestone, the Preferred Options Report, also on target I am confident that not only is it proceeding but remains on schedule."

Ms Anderson said the new roadway will act as an economic catalyst for the entire north west region.

See: A5 'Road' Plan Debated

(PR/BMcC)