“Let’s Get On With It”

In its evidence to the A5 Public Inquiry in Omagh this afternoon, Retail NI has said the development is long overdue and needs to happen asap.

Speaking to the Inquiry today in the Strule Arts Centre, Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said:

 “It is embarrassing that we are even having a public enquiry on this long overdue investment in the infrastructure of the North-West.”  

 “The A5 is a crucial road network that connects the region as far up as Donegal with Belfast, Dublin, and the rest of the island of Ireland.”

 “One of the most common issues raised by many of our members is the economic imbalances which have persisted in Northern Ireland, largely on an ‘east west’ basis. Over the years of peace, I fear we have never really got to terms with the issue and it will require significant investments in infrastructure to drive real change”

 “I don’t think it is an exaggeration to say that this project would be transformational. It would be a good example of Northern Ireland and Irish governments working together on something which will have a positive impact on the whole of the island as well the immediate area. This would be real reconciliation in action, investing in everyone’s future and business prosperity. 

 “The A5 project is perhaps one of the most obvious projects that can address the investment imbalances as this project is of regional importance to Northern Ireland’s economy and its infrastructure”.

 “Let’s get on with it”.