O’Flynn: Silence from Cork TDs on water and infrastructure issues is deafening

As Ireland’s government grapples with the monumental task of collecting €14 billion in back taxes from Apple, a ruling by the EU’s highest court reveals that the tech giant has been operating under an illegal sweetheart tax deal. This landmark decision opens a significant financial opportunity for our country, yet I am struck by the conspicuous silence from our representatives on the northside of Cork—home to Apple's European headquarters.

In recent days, we have heard enthusiastic declarations from party leaders and TDs across the country about how this newfound windfall should be utilized. However, it's perplexing that none of our local representatives from the northside have made their voices heard regarding the potential benefits of these funds for our community. Given our region's unique connection to Apple, one would expect greater advocacy for prioritizing investments in our neighborhoods.

To this end, I have formally written to the Minister of Finance, urging him to ensure that the northside is not overlooked in discussions surrounding the allocation of these funds. Specifically, I highlighted the urgent need for €500 million to address crucial water infrastructure improvements needed by Irish Water. Additionally, we must prioritize the completion of key transport projects that have languished for too long, including the long-awaited Northern Ring Road, the Cork to Limerick route, and the Mallow relief road.

Moreover, significant investment is essential for the revitalization of Blackpool and the surrounding areas. This is not merely an investment in infrastructure; it’s an opportunity to enhance the quality of life for our residents and to boost our local economy.

As Chairman of Independent Ireland, one of the fastest-growing political organizations in the country, I firmly believe that we should be capitalizing on this financial opportunity for the benefit of our community. The silence from Cork TDs on this matter is indeed deafening, and I call upon them to step up and join me in advocating for our city. 

Common sense in politics shouldn’t be a rarity, but unfortunately, it appears to be just that. Let us not allow this chance to slip through our fingers; we must act decisively to ensure that the northside receives its fair share of this significant windfall.