Road Tolls

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 September 2012

Wednesday, 26 September 2012

Ceisteanna (216)

Michael Healy-Rae

Ceist:

216. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport; Tourism and Sport if he will provide breakdown of the total enforcement costs comprising; the base enforcement costs and any additional enforcement costs; and any associated or ancillary costs of enforcement, for the M50 Toll road since it went barrier free in August 2008; if any consideration has been given to providing a more reasonable, convenient and consumer friendly method of payment of these toll road charges for occasional users, other than the existing method which is time consuming and seems to be unduly restrictive, which would assist the general public to avoid the late payment charges, fines and penalties (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40899/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme.  The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.  

In addition, the statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads is vested in the NRA under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000 and the Roads Act 2007).  

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply.  Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days