Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022
268. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the amount that has been raised in tolls on the East Link Bridge in each of the past 20 years; and if the Government will reduce or scrap the tolls to ease the cost-of-living burden on commuters. [29254/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Therefore, matters relating to the day to day operations regarding national roads, including toll roads and the establishment of a system of tolls, are within the remit of TII. More specifically, the statutory power to levy tolls, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into agreements with private investors are vested in TII under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended).
Toll revenue is a very important source of revenue for TII and is used to fund essential services including the operation and maintenance of the primary and secondary road network; Dublin Tunnel, the Jack Lynch Tunnel; and TII’s Motorway Control Centre.
Noting the above position, I have referred the question to TII for a direct reply as to the toll income raised by the East-Link Bridge. Please advise my private office if a reply is not received within 10 working days.
