Call for Apple tax money to pay for Thurles bypass
Jackie Cahill calls for a full review of the National Development Plan in light of Apple ruling
Tipperary TD Jackie Cahill has called for a full review of the National Development Plan in light of the recent ruling of the European Court of Justice on the Apple taxation case. The deputy said the €13 Billion payment from Apple to the State should be used for long-term economic, societal and environmental gain.
This he said could be achieved by reviewing the National Development Plan.
Mr Cahill said he would like to see three projects in the mid-west benefit from the windfall. Those are Thurles Bypass, capital expenditure for a second A&E in the mid-west, and major development works on both water and wastewater treatment plants.
Mr Cahill said: “There are three core priorities that I want to see included in this review, that when delivered, would bring major economic, societal and environmental gain.
“These include the Thurles Bypass, a second A&E for the mid-west region, and a transformation of our water and wastewater treatment plants. Tackling the major traffic congestion in Thurles is absolutely essential for both quality of life and economic development, not just locally but for the entire region.
“With this additional revenue, I believe the smart thing to do is to look towards major investment projects such as the Thurles Bypass, as including this funding in annual expenditure will not be an option.
“With the ongoing review into the need for a second A&E in the mid-west region, Deputy Cahill said:
“I believe it is clear to all that a second A&E is required for the people of the mid-west region.
“Minister Donnelly has commenced a clinical review of these needs, and while we cannot act until after this review is concluded.
“I would like to see funding set aside for the capital development of a second A&E for our region, with works to commence once a decision has finally been made on the matter.
“Finally, with housing being the number one priority for this Government, a major capital expenditure programme in our water and wastewater treatment plants would be the wise and strategic move to make.
“We are seeing towns and villages right across the country being prevented from development due to major capacity issues in our water and sewerage systems.
“Acting now on this matter and providing the basis for development will not only pave the way for much-needed homes for both current and future generations, but it will also allow for major improvements in our water quality by tackling the vast quantities of raw sewerage currently being pumped into our rivers and lakes.”
He concluded:
“A full review of the National Development Plan to include these key priorities for the entire region is the correct decision to make.
“These record tax receipts can be put to good use for the benefit of the Irish people and our economy. Allowing the National Development Plan to become more ambitious in the areas of roads, housing, health and water quality is the responsible thing to do with this money.”