Road Projects

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 November 2023

Wednesday, 15 November 2023

Questions (38)

Jackie Cahill

Question:

38. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport if the failure to allocate funds in Budget 2024 for the next phase of the N24 means the route selection will not now proceed as planned this year, as the next phase is not funded; if an interview given by him on 22 October 2023 where he prioritised town by-passes over new roads means the project is now scrapped; the implications of this "by-passes policy" for Clonmel and route selection there; if, given the N24 Preferred Transport Solution was scheduled to be put on public display in Q4 of 2023, that is now deferred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50041/23]

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. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.

I can confirm that €2,000,000 has been allocated for the N24 Waterford to Cahir scheme in 2023, with €2,000,00 being allocated for the N24 Waterford to Cahir scheme. As with all national roads projects in the NDP, the delivery programme for the project will be kept under review for 2024 and considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII. The allocations for national roads projects in 2024 are expected to be announced by the end of the year.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you regarding the status of these projects. 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