Big day for Ballina-Killaloe

Sod-turning for new Shannon crossing

Tipperary TD Alan Kelly said he was delighted that the official contract signing and sod-turning for the new bridge in Ballina/Killaloe will take place this Thursday.

The Labour TD added: “We all know that the work has commenced on this some time ago, so this is the formal launch of the project, which will be officiated by Minister Eamon Ryan.

“When I set off on my political journey in 2007 I was determined to get this project over the line. It was one of my top priorities locally as I knew how needed it was. The people of the locality craved this bridge, they deserved it and I knew this well, so I wanted to deliver it.

“That’s why, when I had the opportunity in Government, I put this project in the capital plan in 2015 and this set it on the road to being built. In negotiations with my Government colleagues, I wouldn’t leave the room until this was confirmed.

“There were many challenges along the way but [this] Thursday is a significant day for me and my colleague Cllr Fiona Bonfield, who has worked tirelessly with me on this.

“Well done to both Tipperary and Clare Co Councils, the officials in the Dept of Transport and local public representatives. I look forward to this transforming piece of infrastructure being opened in less than three years time.”