Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:145 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which the national roads building programme is on target in respect of scheduled works and costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23770/03]
Adjournment Debate. - Roads Projects.
Good progress has been made in the implementation of the national roads upgrade programme provided for in the NDP. Over the period 2000 to 2003 Exchequer investment will total approximately €3.8 billion and 32 projects – a total of 240 km, including 64 km of motorway and 34 km of dual carriageway standard, have been completed to date.
In addition, work is under way on 18 projects totalling 180 km, including 145 km to motorway-dual carriageway standard. Another 16 projects – a total of 145 km – are at tender stage. In relation to the five major inter urban routes, the position is that by the end of the year approximately 30% of these routes will be upgraded to motorway-dual carriageway standard with work under way on approximately another 12%.
The increased cost of the programme provided for in the NDP has impacted on the pace and momentum of implementation. Delivery of some projects will take longer than originally anticipated. Project completion dates will depend on the funding levels available in the years ahead, including from additional sources, and on construction and land costs.