Doherty welcomes go-ahead announcement for A5

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has welcomed today’s announcement by the Minister of Regional Development giving the go-ahead for the autumn commencement of two stretches of the A5 dual carriageway.

Pat Doherty said:
“Sinn Féin has been to the forefront of the campaign for the A5 dual carriageway so today’s represents a welcome milestone in these efforts.
“First and foremost this announcement provides a much needed boost for the local economy.
“Apart from the 800 workers to be directly employment on the construction phase of the two sections between Newbuildings and Strabane and between Ballygawley and Omagh, the indirect spin-offs to the local economy will also be substantial.

“This will include materials and equipment being sourced locally which will boost local retail outlets. Through the inbuilt social clauses employment and training opportunities for the youth and long-term unemployed will also benefit local communities.  

“It is envisaged that the construction of these two phases will take around two and a-half years to complete. Sinn Féin will be continuing with our lobbing efforts, north and south, to secure the necessary commitments for the remaining Omagh to Strabane stretch and will be particularly pressing the Irish government to honour its unfulfilled financial commitments in this regard.

“The full socio-economic potential of the A5 dual carriageway will only be realised upon the completion of all its phases. But with construction finally beginning the momentum to achieve this will increase substantially.”