Gorey Primary Care Centre decision expected this month as Malcolm Byrne outlines North Wexford priorities

A decision on the tender for the long-awaited Gorey Primary Care Centre is expected before the end of this month, according to North Wexford TD Malcolm Byrne.

Speaking to South East Radio ahead of the return of the Dáil Deputy Byrne outlined a series of issues he says he will continue to pursue for communities across North Wexford.

Among the most significant is the Gorey Primary Care Centre which has been under discussion since 2010.

Deputy Byrne said HSE Estates is expected to make a decision this month on awarding the tender which would allow the project to progress towards construction.

He said he hopes work could begin by the beginning of 2027 at the latest.

The TD said the development is particularly important because of continuing pressure on GP services in County Wexford with some new residents struggling to get onto GP lists and existing patients facing lengthy waits for appointments.

Deputy Byrne also highlighted plans for a new relief road in Gorey.

He said more than €15 million is being provided for the project which is planned to link the Arklow Road area with Ballyteagan Road.

He said the road would help ease traffic pressures while also opening up council-owned land at St Waleran's for badly needed housing.

The development would also support plans for the East Coast Sporting Complex, including facilities for hockey, cricket and athletics.

Wastewater infrastructure in North Wexford was another major concern raised during the interview.

Deputy Byrne said delays are preventing further development in communities including Camolin and Ferns.

He said representatives from local development groups have met Uisce Éireann but have been told that some issues could take up to six years to resolve.

According to Deputy Byrne, the lack of infrastructure is preventing new homes from being built and, in turn, making it more difficult to sustain local schools and businesses.

He said even the construction of relatively small housing developments each year could make a major difference to communities.

Deputy Byrne was also questioned about recent newspaper speculation concerning a possible court appearance in connection with his arrest over suspicion of drink driving.

He told Alan Corcoran that he does not currently have a court date and said he is fully cooperating with an ongoing investigation.

When specifically asked about speculation surrounding a possible November date, Deputy Byrne again said he had not been given a court date and could not comment further.

He said he respects both the Garda investigation and the court process and would speak publicly about the matter when he is in a position to do so.

Deputy Byrne also highlighted flood relief works in Bunclody, the need for improved facilities at Bunclody Community College, the proposed restoration of Courtown beach and a forthcoming round of funding for sports and community facilities as other priorities for the constituency.