A Mid Ulster MLA has accused the Department for Infrastructure of failing rural communities by channeling funds into bilingual traffic signs and road markings in West Belfast while essential road repairs go undone.

Keith Buchanan of the DUP said that the department's claim of limited resources was undercut by spending on what he described as optional projects. He argued that the decision reflected a lack of political will rather than a shortage of money.

The MLA stated that the department's first responsibility should be public safety. He called for immediate action to fix roads, repair verges, and replace damaged signs across rural areas.

Buchanan said that families, farmers, and workers use these roads every day and require basic, safe conditions. He added that they were not seeking special treatment.

He warned that without a shift in priorities, road users would face hazardous conditions in the coming winter as a direct result of underinvestment and neglect.

The DUP representative vowed to continue pressing the department until rural infrastructure receives fair investment.