Varadkar confirms funds available as Slane bypass decision awaited

With a crucial Bord Pleanala decision on the Slane bypass due on 14th February, there has been a warm welcome in Slane for the confirmation by Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, that funds will be made available for the purchase of land for the road if the project is approved by the planning board. Senator Thomas Byrne welcomed a communication he received from the minister's office regarding funding for the project. However, Minister of State Shane McEntee said he had already received this commitment from Minsiter Varadkar months ago and informed every household in Slane of that commitment. "Fianna Fail tried to raise a row over this some months ago and I gave a commitment at that time that the money would be available if we get Bord Pleanala approval," said Mr McEntee. He said the main concern now was that the planning board would grant approval for this critical piece of infrastructure. Senaor Byrne said it was brilliant news for the people of Slane and surrounding areas who have been waiting a long time to see progress on this important project. "I will be holding Minister Varadkar and other government TDs to their word with regard to this project as it is clear that lives will be saved if this bypass is built. This promise to the people of Slane must not be reneged upon. It is written in black and white and cannot be ignored," he said. John Ryle of the Slane Bridge Action Committee said the confirmaton was marvellous news. "Now all we can do is hope and pray that we get approval," he said. Mr Ryle said that approval and funding for the bypass would be the end of a long saga for the people of Slane. "The bypass will save a lot of lives and will also enhance the village of Slane," he added.