Revised plan has left many ‘in the dark’
There have been some mixed reactions on Leeside to the Government’s revised National Development Plan (NDP) which outlines a total investment of €275.4 billion between 2026 and 2035.
The review includes an additional €34 billion relative to the previous 2021-2030 NDP including equity funding of €10 billion between 2026 and 2030 to fund large strategic projects in energy, water, and transport.
The review also includes Exchequer funds, Apple’s €14 billion Escrow funds, the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund, and proceeds of the AIB share sales.
However, a lack of specifics regarding crucial projects like the Cork to Limerick motorway and the Cork Luas has caused frustration among some Cork politicians.
Labour TD for Cork North-Central, Eoghan Kenny, expressed his disappointment at the lack of detail in revised plan.
Deputy Kenny said: “With all the hype of the renewed NDP, it is disappointing how little detail has been provided when so many vital infrastructure projects lie in limbo.”
He added: “Commuters, businesses, and workers remain in the dark about the development of the Cork-Limerick motorway.
“Once again, we have little light at the end of the tunnel for the Mallow Relief Road with no detail on this project.
“With our climate hat on and given the targets that have been set for 2030 and 2050 to reduce our emissions, the lack of detail on the Cork Luas from the announcement does not inspire confidence that this Government is serious about investment in public transport in Cork,” said the deputy.
Meanwhile, Cork Chamber welcomed the revised NDP but said it must be followed up with more detail, timelines, and decisive action.
Cork Chamber Director of Public and International Affairs, Cathal McSweeney, said: “While this is a significant milestone, greater certainty regarding timelines and specific projects to receive funding is needed to instil confidence in both the short and long term.
“It is now crucial to rapidly accelerate investment and delivery in key projects in order to achieve housing targets, address infrastructure deficiencies, improve economic competitiveness, reach climate targets, and enhance quality of life,” added Mr McSweeney.
Green Party councillor for Cork City South-East and Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, Honore Kamegni, specifically welcomed the €7.55 billion allocated to the Department of Education and Youth under the revised NDP, calling it a “vital step” in supporting young people’s futures.
“I would also strongly call on the Government to use some of this funding to address the lack of early childcare places which are so badly needed in Cork and around the rest of the country,” said Cllr Kamegni.
While the revised NDP includes support for innovation in construction and infrastructure, Cllr Kamegni called for more direct, measurable commitments to youth-focused and community-led sports projects, particularly in regional areas.