Statement. Eamon Gilmore TD,
Labour Spokesperson on Environment and Local Government,
2nd. May 2007.

Labour plan would have prevented M3 delay

In November 2004, we proposed in the Dail that the M3 be developed immediately in three sections, and that the controversial section, running through the Skryne Valley be rerouted.

If the Govt. had accepted that proposal the situation where work on part of the M3 was halted yesterday, could have been avoided.

While the authorities didn't know the full extent of the archaeological heritage in the area, they were aware that there were dozens of sites of archaeological interest.

We argued that bypasses around Kells, Navan and Dunshaughlin could have proceeded and that in the meantime, an intelligent and sensitive redesign of the controversial section of the proposed motorway could have been undertaken.

Environment Minister Dick Roche wouldn't listen. He poo pooed our proposals at the time and as a result, the project has been held up, for who knows how long.