15 November 2026
By Bryan McCarthy
bryan@TheCork.ie
Deputy O’Shea says delivery of Cork to Limerick road project remains a national priority following Dáil exchange with Minister Burke
Cork North West Fine Gael TD Deputy John Paul O’Shea has called on the Government to maintain momentum and ensure that the N/M20 Cork to Limerick project progresses, following his contribution in Dáil Éireann this week.
Deputy O’Shea raised the importance of advancing the project to its next stage, highlighting the need for continued Government commitment, timely approval of the Business Case and progression towards a planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála.
Minister Peter Burke responded on behalf of the Government, addressing the issues raised by Deputy O’Shea.
Deputy O’Shea said “The N/M20 is one of the most important infrastructure projects for Cork, Limerick and the wider Munster region. It is a project that has been discussed and promised for many years, and it is absolutely essential that we now maintain momentum and drive it forward.
“The existing N20 is simply not fit for purpose. It carries significant volumes of traffic, including heavy goods vehicles, and creates considerable congestion and road safety concerns for motorists and communities along the route.
“For towns such as Mallow, Buttevant and Charleville, and villages such as Ballyhea and Newtwopothouse, the delivery of this project would be transformational. It would remove significant volumes of through-traffic, improve road safety and create opportunities for further residential and economic development.
“I am particularly keen to see the project progress through the necessary Business Case and planning stages, with the target of submitting an application during 2026. We must do everything possible to achieve that milestone and ensure that the necessary funding and resources are available to keep the project on schedule.
“I welcome the opportunity to raise these matters directly with Minister Burke and to hear the Government’s response. However, the message I want to reinforce is that we cannot afford to lose momentum. The people of Cork and Limerick need certainty that this project will be delivered.”
Deputy O’Shea also highlighted the wider benefits of the proposed scheme, which extends approximately 80 kilometres between Blarney in Cork and Patrickswell in Limerick.
He said the project must be viewed as an integrated transport investment, with significant opportunities arising from its proposed active travel and greenway network, Park and Ride facilities, transport hubs, freight infrastructure and complementary improvements to rail services.
“While the road itself is critically important, we must also recognise the wider opportunities this project presents.
“Improved connectivity between Cork and Limerick, together with better links to Shannon Airport and the wider Atlantic Economic Corridor, would strengthen our regional economy, attract investment and support job creation.
“For Cork North West, this is particularly important. Better transport links will make our towns and villages more accessible and attractive places in which to live, work and do business.
“My concern is that we have already waited long enough. I want to see the planning process advance, the necessary approvals secured and a clear pathway towards construction commencing in 2028.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our region. We need to match the Government’s commitments with progress on the ground.
“I will continue to press for this project and ensure that Cork North West and the wider Munster region get the modern transport infrastructure they deserve.
The time for delivery is now. The N/M20 must drive on without further unnecessary delays.”