A Dublin MEP has been accused of “threatening progress” on a road she “does not travel regularly”, by raising questions about it in the European Parliament.
Fine Gael Galway West TD Seán Kyne has accused Dublin MEP Nessa Childers of interfering in “issues which fall a long way outside her Dublin constituency”, after she tabled a question to the European Commission on the N59 Oughterard to Maam Cross upgrade project.
Ms Childers specifically questioned whether the roadworks comply with the relevant EU heritage and conservation legislation. Dep Kyne said this was “unhelpful and could undermine progress”.
“In Galway we have experienced the negative consequences of objections to vital transport projects,” he said, “some of which have originated from persons residing outside of the county with few, if any, connections to the west.”
However he struck a more conciliatory note by saying, “I’m certain MEP Childers has Ireland’s best interests at heart” and that “sustainable planning that complies with EU and national laws to project heritage and conserve the environment is important”.
Dep Kyne said the N59 upgrade will improve road safety for motorists and pedestrians and result in a road that is an improved location for cycling.
