Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2017
76. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the A5-N2 project in terms of the capital plan review being conducted by his Department; his plans for moving this project forward in the context of the Brexit deadline and as part of the national planning framework plan as a catalyst for regional development and growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49140/17]
View answerThe planning and implementation of the A5 upgrade project is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland authorities.
The current funding arrangements in relation to the A5 are governed by the Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan - A Fresh Start. This Agreement reaffirmed the Government's commitment to provide funding of £50 million for the A5 project and committed an additional £25 million to ensure that Phase 1 of the project (Newbuildings to north of Strabane) can commence as soon as the necessary planning issues have been resolved by the Northern Ireland authorities.
The funding allocated to my Department as part of the Capital Plan Review includes financial provision for meeting the Government's commitment regarding the A5.
In relation to the N2, as Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Within its annual budget the planning, design and implementation of individual road projects (such as the N2) is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual national road projects is a matter in the first instance for TII in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.
I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's Question to TII for direct reply. Please advise my Office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
The deferred reply under Standing Order 42A was forwarded to the Deputy.
