The North's Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins gave the go-ahead for the signage last week, but it has led to a row among Stormont Executive ministers.

The Fiscal Council said there are significant shortfalls in four key areas, including housing, healthcare, transport, and electricity.

Fine Gael Deputy Alan Farrell said Irish Rail "must do better" for commuters.

A scheme to turn the road into a dual carriageway was first approved in 2007, but has been held up by legal proceedings and faced funding uncertainty.

Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd was speaking after the Irish Government announced funding for the scheme.

The A5 major road scheme and the redevelopment of Casement Park GAA grounds in west Belfast are speculated to be among those set to benefit