Fine Gael commits to creation of new dedicated Cork City Taskforce

Fine Gael will appoint a dedicated Cork City Taskforce within the first 100 days of Government to rejuvenate the city centre and drive major infrastructure projects committed to in the Party’s General Election manifesto.

Speaking in Cork city centre today, Ministers Helen McEntee and Paschal Donohoe announced Fine Gael’s commitment to the establishment of a new Cork City Taskforce. Along with the rejuvenation of the city centre, Fine Gael will drive major investment in healthcare through the creation of a new surgical hub and a new elective hospital.

Development of Cork Airport, construction of the Limerick to Cork motorway and investment in public transport are also top priorities for Fine Gael in Cork city and county.

Minister for Justice and Fine Gael Deputy Leader Helen McEntee, said:

“Following on from the success of the Dublin City Taskforce, Fine Gael is committed to the creation of the same for Cork city within the first 100 days. Cork is a vibrant, thriving city that faces its own unique challenges and opportunities.

“The first step in the creation of the Taskforce will be bringing together stakeholders from across national and local government, businesses, and civic and cultural organisations. This expert group will consider the current economic and social environment across Cork city, identify the needs and ultimately present recommendations for the rejuvenation of the city.

“The work won’t stop there. Crucially, Fine Gael in Government will ensure that Cork has the investment needed to implement the Taskforce’s recommendations.”

Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform Paschal Donohoe, said:

“Fine Gael understands the need for a transport system that works well, in order for a city to reach its full potential. Our manifesto has committed to the construction of the Cork Commuter Rail Programme to improve urban connectivity and convenience. Along with public transport, a strong, connected road network is crucial to the development of Cork county as well as city. In recognition of this, Fine Gael will invest in the Cork to Limerick motorway.

“Cork Airport opens up the county and surrounding areas to tourism from across Europe. It is a lifeline for the people of Cork as well as local businesses. To ensure Cork Airport continues to go from strength to strength, Fine Gael will conduct an urgent review to maximise the use of regional airports.

“Cork will also benefit from Fine Gael’s ambitious healthcare investment plans. We will establish a surgical hub as well as a new elective hospital in Cork to perform thousands of day case procedures such as cataracts, minor operations, and outpatient appointments each year. These hubs, to be up and running by 2025, will feature dedicated surgical facilities with operating theatres and treatment rooms, significantly reducing waiting lists and times in the short term.

“We will also expand the emergency department in Cork University Hospital, and open up a new injury unit.”