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Irish Independent
23-07-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Louth set to benefit from record €275 billion national development plan
Unveiled this week, the NDP outlines €275 billion in investment through 2035, with €102 billion allocated for the next five years, €34 billion more than previously planned. Speaking following the announcement, Fine Gael TD Paula Butterly described the plan as 'a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver real and lasting improvements for people in Louth.' 'This investment will allow us to build more homes, deliver better schools and healthcare facilities, improve public transport, and upgrade critical utilities like water and energy infrastructure,' she said. 'It's about laying the foundations for strong, vibrant communities throughout Drogheda, Dundalk, and across Mid and South Louth.' She confirmed that key projects already being prioritised include the Drogheda Port Access Northern Cross Route (PANCR), the Ardee Bypass, a new North/Mid Louth Train Station, and strategic investment in ports and utilities. Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan welcomed the plan, noting: 'The NDP is about improving everyday life. Helping people find a home, cutting down on long commutes, and making sure every child can access the right kind of education.' Deputy McGreehan said her focus now is securing delivery for Louth: 'In Louth, we need to see real delivery on key projects like the Ardee Bypass, the reopening of Dunleer Train Station, and the construction of a new athletic track in Dundalk. These developments are essential for supporting growth and improving quality of life across the county.' She added: 'I've raised these priorities directly with the Minister, and I'll keep pushing to secure funding between now and Budget Day. Louth must get its fair share of this record investment.' Deputy Butterly echoed the sentiment, saying she would work closely over the summer with Tánaiste Simon Harris and Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe to keep Louth's priorities at the top of the agenda for Budget 2026. Both TDs stressed the importance of long-term planning. 'This is a once-in-a-generation chance to reshape Ireland's infrastructure and secure our future,' said Deputy McGreehan. 'By focusing on water, energy, and transport, we're preparing the ground for 300,000 new homes by 2030.'
Irish Independent
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
50 years on from Dundalk bombing questions over ‘accountability and collusion' remain
County Council driver, Jack Rooney, and well-known and highly respected local tailor, Hugh Watters, died in the Dundalk bombing, which happened when a device placed in a car outside Kay's Tavern exploded. A short time later, three people, including a father and son, were murdered just across the border. The notorious Glenanne Gang, said to be responsible for over a hundred murders during the Troubles, have been linked to the local atrocities. In the Dáil last week, Deputy Erin McGreehan asked if the Department of Justice had taken direct engagement with the Northern Ireland authorities in relation to these crimes. 'Next December marks 50 years since the Dundalk bombing, in which two people were killed and many injured. In the light of this enduring trauma, many unanswered questions remain. 'What actions has the Department taken to secure some release of information and accountability, particularly regarding the long-standing allegations of collusion,' she asked. Replying, Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan, said that, regrettably, nobody has been brought to justice for the murders. 'Technically, it is an ongoing Garda investigation, but the reality is that we are going to have to try to get some mechanism to deal with this and others as legacy issues. 'There are ongoing discussions between the Irish Government and British Government as to how best address legacy issues. It is certainly the case that the Dundalk bombing would be a crime within the parameters of the types of events that need to be investigated.' The Minister added he would keep Deputy McGreehan appraised on any developments. Speaking since the Dáil debate, Deputy McGreehan said she always thought that the Dundalk bombing was being overlooked in the commentary on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. 'They were horrendous events in which many lives were lost. I think what happened in Dundalk should be included in whatever action the Government takes in trying to find who were responsible,' she said.
