Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 November 2022
184. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if he will examine extending the disability toll exemption scheme to parents of children who are patients in hospital, noting the cost that parents face travelling to visit their children in hospital every day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56568/22]
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).
With regard to the payment mechanism associated with toll operations, it is a contractual obligation which incorporates a traffic guarantee mechanism. Therefore, the contracts for the privately-operated toll schemes are commercial agreements between TII and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) concessionaires concerned.
Noting the above position, and given that the Disability Toll Exemption Scheme is operated by TII, I have referred the question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
