Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Nov 2000

Vol. 525 No. 3

Written Answers. - Roads Projects.

Ivan Yates

Question:

277 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he has satisfied himself that his Department, local authorities and the National Roads Authority will achieve the primary road construction projects as set out in the national development plan. [24919/00]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

The National Development Plan 2000-06 (NDP), with the community support framework and the economic and social infrastructure operational programme, form the strategic policy context for the improvement of the national road infrastructure over the next seven years. In accordance with the Roads Act, 1993, it is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, within this framework to promote the detailed programming of the work required by the NDP and to manage, in co-operation with local authorities, and the private sector in the context of public-private partnerships, the planning, design and implementation of individual road development projects.

Major national road investment projects traditionally have had long lead-in times and the level of activity represented by the national development plan will require considerable acceleration of the road planning and design process. Progress is already being made in bringing major road projects to construction in the fastest possible time.

Efforts are being made through better and earlier public consultation and through comprehensive environmental impact assessments to reduce the potential for objections to projects. Furthermore, the Planning and Development Act, 2000, streamlines certain statutory approval processes and the timing and nature of judicial appeals. Under the Act, when commenced, ministerial decisions on motorway schemes, compulsory purchase orders and environmental impact statements are being transferred to An Bord Pleanála which must decide on these matters within 18 weeks of the closing date for receipt of submissions. The requirements for Ministerial approval of tolling schemes and associated by-laws are also being removed.

A code of practice in relation to protection of archaeological heritage has recently been agreed between the NRA and the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands. In addition, a broad-ranging package of measures is being pursued by the NRA. The Cabinet committee on infrastructural development provides high level oversight and assistance in relation to delivery of the NDP.

I am satisfied that significant progress is being made on the advancement of the national roads programme as set out in the NDP, and that stated targets will be met.