Environmental Impact Assessments

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022

Tuesday, 8 November 2022

Questions (229)

Paul Murphy

Question:

229. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will condemn the action that has been taken for the preliminary stages of construction in relation to Ardee bog and the lack of environmental impact assessment of the proposed Ardee bypass that cuts through this bog; if he will ensure that an environmental impact assessment is carried out, halting any further work until it is complete and the findings are considered; and if he will consider Ardee bog as a natural heritage site. [55301/22]

Written answers

Minister for Transport

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.

A judicial review has been taken against the decisions of An Bord Pleanála regarding Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) screening and the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). As such, it would not be appropriate for me to comment at this time on planning matters relating to the Ardee bypass.

TII is best placed to advise you on the status of this project more generally. 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