Road Projects

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Questions (281)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

281. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport when specific allocations of funding for national roads will be announced in 2023; if this will include funding for the commencement of construction on a section of road (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1971/23]

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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. Once funding arrangements have been put in place with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), 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 TII, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals.

The allocations for national roads in 2023 are currently being finalised and will be announced by TII shortly.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question regarding the N59, on this occasion, to TII for a direct update on this scheme. 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.

I refer to your recent parliamentary question, Ref. No. 1971/23, to Mr Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for Transport. The position in relation to your enquiry is as follows.

Details of the National Roads and Greenways grants for 2023 are now expected to be announced in mid- February and will be available from Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s (TII) website when confirmed.

TII wishes to advise that it is committed to the continued delivery of the overarching N59 Maam Cross to Oughterard Project. The next step of this is the completion of the Phase 5 Advance Works Packages, which are subject to the approval of the Method Statements by the National Parks and Wildlife Service for the Bunnakill to Claremont section of the Scheme. Subject to these approvals being forthcoming, TII will provide funding for the progression of this project.

I hope that this information is of assistance to you.