Road Improvement Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 October 2014

Wednesday, 1 October 2014

Questions (37)

Seán Kyne

Question:

37. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in the context of sustainable transport funding allocated annually to counties, if funding will be considered for undertaking an examination of carrying out improvements and enhancements to the Quincentennial Bridge including the number of traffic lanes and the possibility of installing a pedestrian bridge alongside the existing one which would alleviate traffic congestion in the Galway region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36804/14]

Written answers

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme.  As the Quincentennial Bridge is on a national road the planning, design and implementation of works on the bridge is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.