Casserly’s belief in the region
“At various times on Friday last ‘a lost decade’ was mentioned and that’s certainly true. The truth is that for decades there has been no proper longterm planning because politicians only look to the next election.
“After a decade of emigration and the recession it is only now that there is money available for investment again. And now it seems at least the penny has dropped that a good quality of life exists outside of Dublin. In relation to Sligo projects, the fencing works has already started on the Western Distributor Road, work on N4 has started, the Eastern Garavogue Bridge has received more money this year and these projects are good for the entire region and Sligo will benefit from all this investment.
“The Longford to Mullingar motorway will be a huge benefit for us. Sligo University Hospital is receiving much needed investment. I and others will keep the pressure on for the N17. There’s more money for people with disabilities and related services, money for flood relief in Sligo town, Collooney etc. And hopefully with this new Atlantic Corridor counties are coming together instead of each fighting for tiny pot of money. Over the Iast three years I see proper, positive collaboration between lots of different agencies that hasn’t happened before.
“This includes collaboration between counties. And all the counties surrounding Sligo support Sligo as a Regional Hub and all other counties will benefit. Knock airport will be a lot bigger with expansion works taking place, there’s lots going on that is making a difference.
“I believe what is different this time is that properly costed, well researched plans have been submitted by Local Authorities and a lot of other public and private agencies.
“Finally we are speaking as one Region, This plan is going to be signed into law and finally there is money there to support it. I do believe this will happen not because of any one individual but by positive collaboration of everyone who realises the potential of what this region has to offer and a love for Sligo and the entire North West.”