Urgent work needed at dangerous junction in Offaly

A CALL has been once again made on the Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan to reinstate the new section of the N52 between the N4 interchange at Kilbeggan and the Tullamore bypass.

Having completed the east–west connection, the aim was to work on the north–south one between the likes of Mullingar, Tullamore and Portlaoise and across to Roscrea, local Fianna Fáil TD Barry Cowen pointed out this week.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Cowen said  an added benefit was to be the alleviation of a very dangerous junction at Durrow, where the national school, local church and graveyard are located.

"At this very dangerous junction, many parents, grandchildren, staff and children take their lives into their hands daily in the mornings and afternoons.

"Indeed, a recent report published by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, noted that many projects had been taken off the table, thus increasing the potential for death and injury.

"At this juncture, the priority is one of health and safety, with the added benefit of economic prosperity and assistance to the region thereafter. For these reasons alone, I implore the Minister for Transport, when working with TII to agree next year's plan, to reinstate the road.''

In response Minister Ryan said the project remains part of the NDP. The delivery programme for this project will be kept under review for funding in 2024 and future years and will be considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII.