Clarification sought on N17 funding 'suspension' as anger in Mayo grows

THE position on the funding of the multi-million euro N17 project from Knock airport to Collooney needs to be clarified.

The call has come from a meeting of Mayo County Council's economic development, enterprise support, planning and marine strategic policy committee.

Councillor Neil Cruise said recent comments by Minister Eamon Ryan casting a doubt over funding 'have not been helpful'.

To say there would be no funding for years down the line was 'not acceptable' and he hoped the government would address it.

Allied to the fact there doesn't seem to be much movement on the Western Rail Corridor, Councillor Cruise said both projects need to be moving forward for the betterment of the county and the western seaboard, and if they were serious about the Western Economic Corridor.

The point was made by Councillor Jarlath Munnelly that the road is in the Programme for Government and there is no reason why it should not progress.

The Western Rail Corridor doesn't seem to be a priority of this government even though all three parties have nodded, said Councillor Martin McLoughlin. Nothing is happening to bring it forward.

It is a priority for the development of the western region and everyone has recognised its importance, he said.

Its importance should be emphasised at every opportunity to get it fast-tracked.

Cathaoirleach Councillor Mark Duffy said it would be useful to get some clarification where a project like the N17 was being talked down, and to get some certainty on the rail corridor which is a priority for the region.