A proposed £7.5billion tunnel linking Pembrokeshire to Ireland, has been enthusiastically supported by Pembrokeshire County Council cabinet member for transportation, Brian Hall.

However, the idea of a 60-kilometre long tunnel linking Fishguard to Ireland has been branded as unlikely to ever be an economically viable proposal by the Welsh Assembly.

Initially seen as a 'pie in the sky' idea, the idea for a tunnel linking the two isles seems to have gathered momentum.

Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI) chief executive John Dunne said: "We should now begin planning for the design, commissioning and completion of a Tuskar Tunnel, linking Ireland to continental Europe via Wales by 2025."

The CCI is putting pressure on the Irish government to implement the scheme.

With new high-speed trains, a journey from Fishguard to Dublin could be completed in just 70 minutes.

County councillor Brian Hall said: "Pembrokeshire County Council has been in discussion for several years over this proposed tunnel.

"The £11billion tunnel would be 60 kilometres in length.

"The economy of the whole country could be enhanced by this tunnel. I just can't believe the Welsh Assembly is not supporting this venture.

"Pembrokeshire will be the biggest port in the country, it is part of the southern corridor from London and Europe and also the energy capital of the UK with the proposed LNG sites.

"These developments will be generating a huge increase in traffic. The dualling of the A40 is essential in this venture and would have to come first. I am absolutely delighted with the scheme.

"With the Welsh Assembly it is just all talk. We need to get our butts in gear to improve our roads to pave the way for this tunnel."