Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 November 2004
363 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if, in respect of proposed toll roads or bridges, consideration has been given to a design, build and hand-over process which would give the State use of both the revenue accruing and the low maintenance of a new construction for the first 20 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27217/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn integrated design, build, finance and operate approach has been adopted for the implementation of user toll funded public private partnership, PPP, projects in the national roads programme. It is considered that this is the optimum approach in terms of ensuring innovation and value for money in the design, funding, construction, and operation of projects. The separation of the funding and design and construction elements, as suggested by the Deputy, would limit the scope for potential consortia to be innovative in their approach to the funding and implementation of projects.
364 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the estimated revenue accruing to the owners of toll roads or bridges to date; the extent to which the State benefits from this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27218/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver the period 1990 to 2003 the gross toll revenue, before costs, on the Westlink toll bridge amounted to €261.9 million of which €49.097 million was paid to the State. The NRA has received €14.89 million, nett, to date from the toll on the Drogheda bypass.
