Cork Chamber expresses concern at delays to critical transport projects

Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern at comments made by Transport Infrastructure Ireland chief executive Peter Walsh, who has warned that key transport infrastructure projects, including the M20 Cork to Limerick and M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorways, could face significant delays because of issues around funding allocation.

Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, said, “It is concerning to hear that some of the most critical infrastructure projects planned for the Cork region are likely to be further delayed because of uncertainty around funding. Guaranteed funding must be put in place for strategic infrastructure projects such as the M20 and M28. These projects have already been in the pipeline for some time and further delays are unacceptable.”

“Providers of critical infrastructure, including transport infrastructure, need multi-annual funding plans to enable them to plan and deliver large-scale capital projects effectively. The Government must examine the introduction of funding schemes on a multi-annual or major project basis to remove needless uncertainty and delays related to funding for such critical infrastructure developments. This will also help to secure a more competitive marketplace for the delivery of major projects which will ultimately benefit the taxpayer.”