Minister Shane Ross visited Laois earlier today to hear first-hand of the need for major infrastructure projects in Laois, particularly the Portlaoise Southern Orbital Relief Road.
Laois Offaly TD and Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan welcomed Mr Shane Ross TD, Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport to County Laois.
Minister Ross carried out a series of official engagements and meetings with council officials, county councillors, Laois Tourism and Laois IFA in County Hall.
“I am pleased to welcome Minister Ross to County Laois today. Over the past number of months, I have been working closely with Shane and his Department in relation to progressing important capital infrastructure projects for County Laois including the Portlaoise Southern Orbital Relief Road,” Minister Flanagan said.
“This is one of the most important infrastructure projects in Portlaoise town in recent years.
“Other issues impressed upon the Minister included progressing widening works at Maidenhead and the traffic feasibility study for Mountmellick town,” Minister Flanagan said.
Issues
Elected members of Laois County also had the opportunity to meet Minister Ross regarding an array of local and national issues.
Minister Ross positively engaged with Councillors and asked them for their priorities, Minister Flanagan confirmed.
“We held a very positive and productive meeting with Laois County Council Chief Executive Mr John Mulholland and Director of Services Kieran Kehoe and Donal Brennan.
“Many important issues such as Portlaoise Orbital Route, Smarter Travel, Train services were discussed,” Minister Flanagan said.
“I am mindful that a targeted tourism sector across Laois and the midlands needs to be developed. During his visit Minister Ross met with Mr Michael Murphy, current Chairman of Laois Tourism. “Funding for the completion of the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail was one of the matters discussed along with redevelopment of hotels in the County,” Minister Flanagan said.
“I wish to thank Minister Ross for visiting County Laois and I look forward to welcoming other Government Ministers to the constituency over the coming months,” Minister Flanagan said.
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