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Road Projects Status

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 November 2016

Wednesday, 2 November 2016

Ceisteanna (45)

Imelda Munster

Ceist:

45. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to ensure the A5 motorway from Dublin to Derry will be realised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32797/16]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The planning and implementation of the A5 project is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland authorities. As the Deputy is aware the Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan - A Fresh Start reaffirmed the Government's commitment to provide funding of £50 million for the A5 project and committed an additional £25 million to ensure that Phase 1 of the project (New buildings to north of Strabane) can commence as soon as the necessary planning issues have been resolved by the Northern Ireland authorities. Under the Agreement it is envisaged that construction of Phase 1 of the A5 will start in 2017 with a view to completion in 2019. In keeping with the revised project timeline, the Government funding is to be provided in three tranches of £25 million in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 respectively.

The commitments in the Fresh Start Implementation Plan were discussed at the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) meeting held on 4 July.  The Council noted a progress report from Senior Officials from relevant Departments in both jurisdictions which addressed the Fresh Start commitments, including work on the A5. It was also noted that the group of Senior Officials will continue to meet regularly to maintain a strategic overview of the projects and commitments set out in the Fresh Start Implementation Plan and to explore funding opportunities for economic and infrastructural investment.  A further update on the Fresh Start commitments will be brought to the next NSMC Plenary meeting.

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