Road Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021

Wednesday, 13 January 2021

Questions (135)

John Paul Phelan

Question:

135. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Transport if he or his officials have engaged with TII with a view to maximising the potential for native tree planting on existing TII lands adjacent to national road routes in circumstances in which such planting would comply with all relevant road safety demands (details supplied) and provide the State with an additional capacity for increasing biodiversity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44898/20]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

As Minister for Transport 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 operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This also includes all TII landholdings adjacent to national road routes.

Noting the above position, 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.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51