I propose to take Questions Nos. 246 and 247 together.
The upgrade of the Edenderry to Enfield road is being undertaken by Kildare County Council with grant assistance provided by my Department. The design of the route is primarily a matter for the local authority.
Before works of this nature may proceed, the local authority is obliged to comply with requirements of planning legislation. I understand that those requirements, which include extensive public consultation, were complied with in respect of this project and that the works were approved by the elected members of Kildare County Council in December 2006. My Department has no function in that process.
The acquisition of land for the project is also a matter for the local authority. Expenditure by Kildare County Council on foot of the 2008 road grant allocation of €2.5 million will be influenced by progress by the council in respect of acquisition of land and the appointment of a contractor.