Trade Minister saysA5 ruling ‘clearlydisappointing’

But she says she can’t assess the overall economic impact until it becomes clear whether the road scheme has been delayed or abandoned.

Mrs Foster said: “The recent legal ruling and resulting delay to the A5 project is clearly disappointing, as this will impact on a key trading route between the North West and other parts of Northern Ireland and the ROI.”

She noted how industry estimates projected 800 jobs over the peak of construction . “In any event, until it is clear whether this project is simply delayed or does not happen at all, it is difficult for my Department to be conclusive on the overall economic impact,” she said.