Transport department respond to Tipperary councillor's meeting request

The Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council have received a response to their request for a meeting with the Minister for Transport.

The reply was sent by Minister Eamon Ryan’s private secretary who said the request was “with officials,” who will respond directly.

The response was received on January 9, almost three months after it was sent. Councillor Jim Ryan, who submitted the motion in October last year, said it was better late than never.

“It’s a bit late to be honest, but hopefully, they will go ahead with the meeting,” said Cllr Ryan.

Cllr Seamus Hanafin recognised the Minister’s commitment to the “green agenda.”

However, he said the bypass must be part of that to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in Thurles.

“That isn’t an option in Thurles as pedestrians and cyclists will always come out the loser when competing with HGVs.

“The bypass needs to be part of the green agenda. That point needs to be made, and I would welcome the opportunity to do that,” said Cllr Hanafin.

District Admistrator Sharon Scully, who read the response, said she would follow up on the request.

National Development Plan

The sticking point for the Thurles bypass remains that it is not currently on the National Development Plan (NDP).

Because of this, it cannot be funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

However, before Christmas councillors met with TII and learned that the NDP will come under review in 2025. At that point there will be an opportunity to include other projects, not currently on the plan.

A delegation from Tipperary County Council, including Cllrs Seamus Hanafin and Jim Ryan, met with Minister for State at the Department of Transport Jack Chambers last month.

The meeting was described as “positive.”

However, at this month’s sitting of the Tipperary County Council plenary meeting, Cllr Ryan emphasised the importance of a meeting with the Minister for Transport.