Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 May 2013
434. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the up to date position regarding the proposed development of the N2 Clontibret to the Border road scheme and the A5 road project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21400/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the North-South Ministerial Council plenary on 18 November 2011, it was noted that Irish Government would provide £25 million per annum in 2015 and 2016 towards the A5 road project. This is further to £22 million that the Irish Government has already contributed to the project as part of the planning process.
The Northern Ireland Road Service had planned to start construction of the two approved sections of the A5 in autumn last year. However, following publication of the necessary statutory Orders in advance of construction, the Minister for Regional Development’s decision to proceed with the A5 was challenged by a group known as the Alternative A5 Alliance.
On 12 March 2013 the Northern High Court rejected the majority of the applicants’ grounds of challenge. One of the applicants’ grounds was, however, upheld as the judge found that an appropriate assessment under the Habitats Directive should have been carried out on the scheme. On that basis at a further hearing on 8 April 2013 the judge confirmed he would quash the Orders relating to the A5 scheme.
The project was discussed at the North South Ministerial Council Transport Sectoral on 17 April and the Minister for Regional Development now plans to undertake the environmental assessment required under the Habitats Directive. This is a necessary first step to progress the project. The commitment of the Irish Government as set out in November 2011 to this project remains in place.
With regard to the N2 Clontibret to the Border road project, as Minister for Transport, Tourism & 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.
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.
