Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Thomas O'Hanlon's new roads policy welcomed - Doyle

Published: 27 February, 2009

Armagh District Sinn Féin councillor Mary Doyle has welcomed recent comments in the press by SDLP councillor Thomas O'Hanlon and has described them as a welcome change to current SDLP policy.

Cllr Doyle said,

"The recent harm caused to roads both locally and across the six counties by the severe weather conditions has been an issue of concern for elected representatives from all parties over the past few months."

"While it is well established that the budget allocated to Roads Service falls significantly short of what is required to properly maintain the roads network, we as elected representatives have a responsibility to ensure that the little money available is distributed in the best possible way."

"The SDLP's Cllr O'Hanlon has recently acknowledged that there is a considerable financial shortage in DRD's budget, however he has stated that 'Large scale infrastructure projects cannot be constructed at the expense of the local roads network."

"Unfortunately there have been many contradictions arising from the SDLP who disagree in their own ranks as to where this money should be allocated.

"Since Minister Conor Murphy announced work on the two ring roads in Armagh, the SDLP have called for them to be completed as soon as possible. They have said that the Belfast to

Dublin Road

is completed as a matter of priority while their members in Newry have distributed lobby cards calling for a greater focus to be put on the southern relief road. This is all in contrast to Cllr O'Hanlon's stance.

"I have highlighted these contradictions in the Council as they are extremely unhelpful for the people of this area."

"At present the SDLP have different views for different audiences. How can they expect any Minister to take their views seriouslyif their Council and Assembly members have such contrasting stances?"