Vol. 558 No. 4
351 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his recent meeting with the National Roads Authority; if, as a result of his discussions, all projects set out for completion before 2006 will be complete; the projects in County Galway which are included for completion before 2006; if they will be completed within the timeframe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24681/02]
I met the NRA on 12 November this year and discussed a number of issues relating to the national road development programme, including funding options and cost control measures.
There were no discussions with regard to specific projects as the responsibility for the implementation of individual schemes on national roads is a matter for the NRA and local authorities in the context of the national development plan and available funding. The increased cost of the programme and the changed economic and budgetary circumstances combined with some delays, due partly to land access difficulties in 2001 affecting planning, have impacted on the pace of implementation of the programme. Some projects will, therefore, take longer to implement than planned.
Nevertheless, it is hoped that with many projects reaching completion in 2003 and with the advance of PPP projects, a number of schemes will be able to commence next year. The selection of schemes for commencement will be a matter for the NRA.
The provision of over €1 billion for the national roads programme in 2003 will ensure that investment will be maintained at a high level and that good progress will continue to be made in upgrading the national roads network.
352 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Transport the discussion and communications he has had with the National Roads Authority in relation to the Loughrea, County Galway, bypass; his views on whether it would be prudent for the Loughrea bypass to proceed as a stand alone project; if he will make same known to the National Roads Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24682/02]
I have not had any discussions with the NRA regarding the Loughrea bypass but officials from my department have been in contact with them seeking information on the current status of the project. Issues relating to the Loughrea bypass are a matter for the National Roads Authority in conjunction with Galway County Council.
