John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank our guests for their presentation, which answered many of the questions members may have wished to pose in respect of funding and the way in which projects are prioritised. Some of the new technology has obviously proven to be extremely helpful.

Before I open the floor to questions from members, I must apologise in advance for the fact that I will be obliged to leave in the next few minutes in order that I might make a contribution in the Dáil. Prior to doing so, I will pose a couple of questions. Obviously, the funding for local and regional roads comes from central government and local authorities also make a contribution. The figures appear to show that there is a major difference between the amounts contributed by the various local authorities. What is the reason for this? Will our guests provide a figure in respect of the actual upkeep of roads as distinct from that which relates to the upgrading of regional and local roads? They may have already provided that figure during their presentation but perhaps they might remind us of it.