Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2395. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason for the ongoing delay in progressing the new Limerick to Foynes road; if he will approve the use of dual carriageway on the section from Rathkeale to Foynes as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32694/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, and in the context of delivering the Government's commitments arising out of Project Ireland 2040, the planning, design, and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
I would like to advise that my Department has recently received the Business Case for the N21/N69 Limerick to Foynes Road Scheme and it is currently being reviewed and analysed by my Department's Strategic Research and Analysis Division (SRAD). The Business Case will be reviewed in the context of compliance with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform's Public Spending Code and within my own Department's Common Appraisal Framework. This work is on-going.
Given TII's role in managing the overall progression of this project, I have referred the question to TII for a more detailed and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
