asked the Minister for the Environment the steps he has taken to establish the National Roads Authority on a statutory basis; if, in the interim, he will outline the administration and management procedures upon which he has decided to accelerate the national roads programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - National Roads Authority.
51.
I propose to introduce legislation to establish the National Roads Authority on a statutory basis as soon as possible.
I would refer the Deputy to the press statement of 20 July 1988 which sets out the Authority's functions in relation to the national roads programme. I have informed the Authority that, pending enactment of the necessary legislation, the Authority will supervise the development programme for national roads, promote the case for private investment in these roads and develop proposals for loan based investment. The Authority will also promote the case for EC aid on the basis of the operational programme for roads which is being prepared by my Department for submission to the EC. Fifteen administrative staff and 13 professional staff of my Department are providing services to the Authority.