Funding for the A5 over and above the Irish Government’s €600million commitment will be found due to its status as an Executive flagship project.

That’s according to Finance Minister John O’Dowd. Mr. O’Dowd was asked for an update on funding for the A5 by Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew after a recent court judgement gave it the green light at last.

Mr. O'Dowd said: “The A5 is one of the largest road infrastructure projects in the North. I welcome the recent Court of Appeal judgement, which will allow the progression of the A5 project.

"That project is critical for road safety, regional balance and economic connectivity across the North. The Executive have previously committed to the A5 western transport corridor scheme as an Executive flagship project.

"The Irish Government have also committed €600m towards the scheme. As it is an Executive flagship project, any funding required over and above the Irish Government contribution will be earmarked in the Executive Budget.”

The Department for Infrastructure recently updated 300 landowners whose land is being vested as part of the construction of the Strabane to Ballygawley section of the road.

DfI has indicated no major construction will commence on any lands until after December 31, 2026.

Dublin has committed €600m towards a project that is projected to cost £2.1billion.

Mr. O’Dowd said: “My officials have recently undertaken an information-gathering exercise from Departments to inform the Budget. That enables Departments to provide updated funding arrangements for Executive flagship projects, including the A5, which can be reflected in a future agreed Budget. As it is an Executive flagship project, the Executive remain committed to completion of the A5 scheme.”