Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

This a well-presented but nonetheless depressing report. However, in recent years there appears to be better communication between the NRA and local authorities. I note that in respect of the smaller road safety works on the national routes there is a much faster response and improved communications between local authorities and the NRA. Sometimes a little expenditure can go a long way. I commend the NRA on that issue.

Does the NRA have a list of proposed roads on which funding has been spent or committed in respect of land purchase where the roads cannot be built owing to lack of funding? What amount has been committed to roads for which we do not have the funding? The second issue is bad sections on otherwise good roads. There is a fairly good road between Dublin and Sligo. However, a 10 km to 12 km stretch between Ballinafad and Cloonamahon is treacherous and has been the scene of a large number of fatalities. There is a good road to the west and east of that section but for some reason that 12 km section is treacherous. I acknowledge the presence of diggers on it but given the pace of work, it will take a long time to complete it.

Within the limitations in terms of EU tendering processes and regulations - my view is that every decision which results in expenditure for taxpayers should be considered in terms of a social dividend - how many people can be taken off the jobseekers' register? Would the NRA consider such an approach and how might it be carried out?