DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson Welcomes Irish Government Support for Cross-Border Projects, Calls for UK Government Responsibility for Northern Ireland Infrastructure
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), has welcomed the Irish Government’s pledge of €800 million for projects benefiting Northern Ireland. However, he emphasized that funding for Northern Ireland’s public services and infrastructure should primarily come from the UK government.
The funding announcement includes €50 million for the redevelopment of Casement Park GAA stadium in west Belfast and a substantial €600 million towards the proposed upgrade of the A5 road.
While acknowledging the Irish Government’s support for cross-border projects, Sir Jeffrey underscored the distinction between such initiatives and the broader responsibility for funding Northern Ireland’s infrastructure and public services, which he believes falls within the remit of the UK government.
Regarding the A5 project, Sir Jeffrey described the announcement as the fulfillment of a promise first made by the Government in June 2007. He expressed gratitude for the restoration of the funding commitment, despite acknowledging the significant increase in costs over the years.
However, he stressed that while support from the Irish Government for cross-border projects is appreciated, it does not address the substantial funding gap for projects like Casement Park, which have experienced significant cost escalations.
Sir Jeffrey reiterated that it is the responsibility of the UK Government to provide financial support for Northern Ireland’s public services and infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of allocations being based on the region’s needs as outlined in evidence provided to the UK Government.
Minister for Infrastructure John O’Dowd welcomed the Dublin government’s support for the A5 scheme, emphasizing the urgent need to address road safety concerns and deliver long-awaited infrastructure projects. He expressed his commitment to working with officials to advance the A5 project, urging those behind legal challenges to set them aside.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood also welcomed the Irish funding announcement, describing it as a significant boost for projects that have long been in discussion. He highlighted the transformative potential of the funding, particularly for the redevelopment of Casement Park, and called for unity in advancing these vital projects for the benefit of communities in Northern Ireland.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are hopeful that the pledged funding will pave the way for tangible progress in addressing infrastructure needs and driving economic development in Northern Ireland.
