Construction BUSINESS

Government plans to proceed with the upgrading of the N20 Cork – Limerick road to motorway status – confirmed by An Taoiseach and Cabinet colleagues during their recent meeting in Cork – have been wholeheartedly welcomed by the construction plant and machinery sector.

Birdhill-based Komatsu distributor Michael McHale, managing director of McHale Plant Sales, says: “It is a decision that will lead to significant employment during its design and construction phase and create a ‘corridor of opportunity’ that will bring significant economic benefit in its wake.”

One of those who made a submission to the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform arguing in favour of the plan, McHale predicts: “Besides easing the congestion that residents along the route must contend with daily, the project will benefit businesses, farming and tourism enterprises in the region and strengthen the appeal that Shannon Airport and other major towns will have when it comes to attracting new investment. It is expected also that it will have a trickle-down effect on our own business and others in the sector.”