Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady today in the Dáil called on the Taoiseach to immediately reinstate the funding for the upgrade of the N11/M11 that was cut in 2022.
Speaking after raising the chronic congestion on the N11/M11 directly with the Taoiseach and the need for the funding for the project that was cut in 2022, Deputy Brady said.
“Today in the Dáil, I called on the Taoiseach to immediately reinstate funding for the N11/M11 upgrade and deliver the infrastructure that Wicklow desperately needs. The government states in their Programme for Government that they will invest in all road projects in the National Development Plan—so they must honour that commitment and allow this project to proceed.
The gridlock on the N11/M11 has now reached breaking point, and the government’s failure to act is a complete disgrace. This critical road upgrade was included in the National Development Plan 2021- 2030, yet in 2022, the government pulled its funding, despite serious warnings from the National Road Safety Authority and the fact that Wicklow’s population has grown massively in recent years.
The lack of investment in infrastructure, job creation, and public transport in Wicklow has forced thousands of commuters into their cars every single day. They have no choice because the government has failed to provide viable alternatives. Now, every morning and evening, people are trapped in hours of gridlock, missing work, school, and vital medical appointments—while their quality of life continues to suffer. Parents are losing precious time with their children, businesses are losing productivity, and workers are left exhausted before their day even begins.
The economic cost of this inaction is staggering. Businesses across Wicklow and the wider region are suffering from delays, increased transport costs, and a reduced ability to attract investment due to poor connectivity. The government’s failure to act is actively damaging Wicklow’s economy and preventing the creation of much-needed local jobs, forcing even more people into long commutes.
Beyond the economic impact, there is a serious environmental cost. Every day, thousands of vehicles sit idling in traffic, pumping unnecessary carbon emissions into the air. The government claims to be committed to reducing emissions and tackling climate change, yet their inaction on this issue is making things worse, not better. Instead of allowing traffic to flow efficiently, they have created a chronic bottleneck that increases pollution and damages air quality for everyone.
The Taoiseach has confirmed that a review of the National Development Plan will be completed in July. It is critical that, once this review is concluded, this essential project moves forward without any further delay. Wicklow cannot wait any longer.
The government must immediately reinstate the funding they cut in 2022 and deliver the N11/M11 upgrade now. The people of Wicklow deserve better—better infrastructure, better public transport, and a government that actually delivers on its commitments.” Ends
For more information contact: Deputy John Brady 085-8546464