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Road Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 March 2022

Thursday, 3 March 2022

Questions (223)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

223. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the up-to-date position regarding the delivery of the M20 project; the anticipated timelines for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2595/22]

View answer

Written answers

As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and 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 and the necessary statutory approvals.

The N20 road corridor options are currently being progressed by TII with rail-based alternatives as comparators. These options include a new motorway, the M20, or the upgrading of various sections along the existing N20. The two rail scenarios being considered include the existing Cork to Limerick rail line and a new rail line from Charleville to Limerick. The road options largely follow the existing N20 corridor.

An online public consultation on the possible route options, carried out by the N/M20 Project Team, had unprecedented public engagement with the closing date for submissions extended by four weeks from the 18 December 2020 to the 15 January 2021. In order to take into account possible changes to appraisal requirements, the assessment work on options continues, with a preferred route to be selected by Quarter 2 of this year and public consultation to follow.

Subsequent to this, work on scheme design and environmental evaluation will be undertaken, in addition to the scheme Business Case, which is required under the Public Spending Code. The scheme Business Case is expected to be submitted to the Department of Transport and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in early 2023. Subject to its approval, the submission of statutory documents for the project to An Bord Pleanála will follow thereafter. TII has allocated €6 million to the scheme for 2022.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply as to the latest status of this project. 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
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