Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 July 2020
84. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to ensure that the A5 is kept firmly on the agenda at any upcoming North-South Ministerial Council meetings; if projects funded under TEN-T, namely, the Letterkenny to Lifford N14 and the twin towns bypass, remain central to the programme for Government commitment to balanced regional development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16180/20]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware the planning and implementation of the proposed A5 upgrade project is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland authorities. The Government has committed to provide funding of £75 million (sterling) towards the cost of the 1st phase of the scheme once the planning process is concluded. A Planning Inquiry in relation to the project is underway at present with the Inspector’s report expected to be completed later this year.
The status of the A5 scheme has been a regular item for discussion at previous NSMC – Plenary and NSMC- Transport Sectoral meetings and I expect that this will continue to be the case when these meetings resume.
In relation to the TEN-T funded projects, as Minister for Climate, Energy, Communications and Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and securing Exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme.
Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals.
In this context, TII is best placed to advise you regarding the position of this project.
Noting the above, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
