Skip to main content
Normal View

Road Network

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 November 2017

Tuesday, 21 November 2017

Questions (526, 527)

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Question:

526. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for improving Fintra bridge on the R263 in County Donegal; the timeframe for the delivery of the project; the estimated cost of the project; the completion date for the entire project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49295/17]

View answer

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Question:

527. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for improving Tír Chonaill Street bridge in Donegal town; the timeframe for the delivery of the project; the estimated cost of the project; the completion date for the delivery of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49296/17]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 526 and 527 together.

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads (including bridges) is the statutory responsibility of Donegal County Council, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection, prioritisation and timeline for commencement and completion of construction of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.

In May 2017, Donegal County Council applied to my Department for additional funding to progress work on two regional road bridges in County Donegal (Tirconnaill Bridge in Donegal town and Fintra Bridge on the R263). The funding request consisted of:

- A deck replacement and associated works for Tirconnaill Bridge and

- The construction of a new replacement Fintra bridge 

I have given approval to Donegal County Council to proceed with the replacement of Tirconnail bridge at a maximum cost of €700,000. The timeline for completion of the works is a matter for the local authority. 

In respect of the construction of a new replacement bridge at on the R263 at Fintra, Co. Donegal, my officials have been liaising with the Council in relation to options for this bridge. That process is continuing and no allocation can be confirmed in respect of that project until a conclusion is reached on the most appropriate option. However, it should be noted that I, and my department, are committed to the project.

Top
Share