Minister insists on delivery of vital Mayo road funding and commitments

Minister of State Alan Dillon has reaffirmed his determination to ensure that the €1.2 million allocated for the R332 road project in South Mayo is retained and fully delivered, with key commitments from all stakeholders upheld.

Concerns have emerged this week regarding potential delays in the R332 Kilmaine to Tuam upgrade at Foxhall, which could prevent a contractor from being appointed until the third quarter of the year.

Such delays may risk the return of vital Strategic Regional and Local Roads Programme funding allocated last March.

Minister Dillon said: “Following reports that Mayo County Council may struggle to spend the €1.2 million within the required timeframe, I have engaged directly with Kevin Kelly, chief executive, and Tom Gilligan, director of roads, to discuss the obstacles to progressing this important infrastructure. I have been assured that every effort is being made to deliver the project on time.

“This road is a key artery for south Mayo, linking the region to the M17 motorway and supporting both local connectivity and economic development.

"I have also contacted Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien to raise the issue directly, emphasising the need for flexibility and support where necessary to safeguard this investment.

“It is vital that this funding is not just retained, but that the commitments made around timely delivery and the deployment of key project resources particularly the appointment of a contractors are upheld in full.

"I will continue to engage with and support Mayo County Council in the delivery of this project and work closely with Councillor Michael Burke and all stakeholders to ensure progress is maintained without further delay.”