I propose to take Questions Nos. 127, 129 and 161 together.
The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority and the local authorities concerned. Good progress continues to be made on the construction of the tunnel. I am informed that the civil engineering work within the tunnels has been largely completed and that the main focus of work has shifted to the installation of the mechanical and electrical systems which make up the safety and control features of the project. I understand from the National Road Authority that the tunnel is expected to be open to traffic in summer 2006 following the testing and commissioning of the tunnels' operational and safety features.
I also understand that the estimated cost of the Dublin Port tunnel remains at €751 million. Claims for additional costs submitted by the contractor in this case are a matter for Dublin City Council in the first instance. It should be noted that the making of a claim by a contractor does not inevitably lead to additional payments. The traffic management and control arrangements that will apply following the opening of the Dublin Port tunnel are a matter for Dublin City Council. Following the opening to traffic of the Dublin Port tunnel, Dublin City Council will be introducing a heavy goods vehicle traffic management strategy to ensure that maximum traffic benefits are secured from the Dublin Port tunnel. My Department is consulting with all stakeholders, including Dublin City Council, to facilitate the development of a co-ordinated traffic management strategy for the opening of the tunnel.
The improvement of traffic flow on the M50 requires the implementation of the M50 upgrade project, including the installation of barrier free tolling, phase 1 of which is getting under way. The delivery of the upgrade works will provide a significantly enhanced M50 motorway linkage around Dublin City.