Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has renewed calls for accelerated progress on the long-awaited N/M20 motorway linking Cork and Limerick, stressing that 2026 must be a decisive year for the project.
Speaking in the Dáil during Topical Issues, Deputy O’Shea highlighted the critical role of the motorway in improving safety, reducing congestion, and boosting economic opportunities across Munster. He warned that communities along the route—including Ballyhea, Newtwopothouse, Charleville, Buttevant, and Mallow—continue to bear the brunt of heavy traffic on what he described as “one of the most congested, dangerous and inadequate national routes in the country.”
“The N/M20 is about more than just a road,” Deputy O’Shea said. “It’s about unlocking opportunity. Modern, reliable infrastructure will strengthen economic links, support regional development, create jobs, attract investment, and improve quality of life for people in North Cork and beyond.”
The TD welcomed progress made so far but urged that the project move beyond planning to delivery. He called for a clear and accelerated timetable for the business case, final design, and statutory planning process, while ensuring that Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport are fully resourced to deliver the motorway efficiently.
Deputy O’Shea also stressed the need for meaningful engagement with landowners, farmers, and local communities, saying, “Progress must be fair, respectful, and environmentally responsible. Communities have waited long enough for certainty and action.”
The Government confirmed during the debate that the N/M20 project is expected to be submitted to the Department of Transport in the second half of 2026, with An Coimisiún Pleanála to follow subject to approval. Deputy O’Shea welcomed this confirmation but warned that timelines must be met and further delays avoided.
“The people of Munster deserve modern, safe, and reliable infrastructure,” he said. “Our businesses deserve certainty, our communities deserve better connectivity. It is time to turn plans into action and make the N/M20 a reality.”