Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 June 2023
327. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his meetings based on media accounts (details supplied) with toll companies regarding the imminent proposed hike in toll prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28502/23]
View answerAs 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, the setting of tolls is a statutory function of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).
In the twelve month period used to calculate maximum tolls for 2023, inflation was obviously a significant issue and that was at the heart of the toll increases announced for the M50 and the eight PPP schemes. In late 2022, I directed that Departmental officials engage with TII to develop options that might allow for the suspension of the planned toll increases.
Following this direction, TII commenced engagement with all eight PPP companies and the suspension of these increases was agreed upon for a six month period until the end of June 2023.
As this period is coming to an end, and as maximum toll rate is set each year based on the rate of inflation, the planned toll increases will come into effect in July 2023.
There is no formal consultative role for me as Minister in relation to tolls, which are a matter for TII. Therefore I have not held meetings with toll companies regarding the toll price increases.
