10. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the way in which the new infrastructure plan will accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure in the mid-east region and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70504/25]

Sentiment score: -0.10

I welcome the new accelerated infrastructure legislation and ask that the Minister ensure it is applied to one of the most critical transport projects in Meath and wider mid-east region, namely, the Navan rail line. Navan is one of the largest towns in the country and is without a rail connection. Every day, thousands of Meath commuters face long unreliable journeys because their transport network has not kept pace with our population and economic growth. The route selection work is under way and public consultation will follow next year, but without targeted acceleration-----

Sentiment score: 0.21

Realistically, under the current legislation and timelines, the Navan rail line will be delivered in 2036. Can we do better with than that this legislation? The purpose is to remove obstacles, streamline approvals, cut duplicated processes and ensure that key national projects like the Navan rail line move efficiently to delivery. In my very biased opinion, there is no project more deserving than the Navan rail line. Fast-tracking the rail line will ease the pressure on our roads, support housing and jobs, and give families in Meath the reliable and sustainable transport we have waited decades for. I am asking the Minister to apply the full force of this new acceleration framework to the Navan rail line and finally get this project moving at the pace our community deserves.

Sentiment score: 0.14