Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the delegates from the National Roads Authority. It has been clear over the years that there is sometimes a vast difference between neighbouring counties in terms of their approach to the planning and progression of road development projects. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan referred to the Limerick situation. I find it hard to comprehend how Kerry can be 20 years ahead of its neighbouring county when it comes to road infrastructure. One need only consider the state-of-the-art road from Abbeyfeale and onward into Kerry. When one crosses the county bounds into Limerick, however, one encounters bottlenecks and various other blockages, including in busy urban areas like Newcastle West and the important tourist town of Adare. It is quite bewildering. Likewise, when one crosses the boundary into County Cork, passing through Macroom and proceeding further east, it is the same scenario.

It is difficult to understand how such discrepancies arise in a small country like ours and why there is not more continuity in terms of the progressive development of infrastructure. What is the role of the NRA in overseeing and co-ordinating proposals for land acquisitions and other planning issues as put forward by the various local authorities? Is there a need for more joined-up thinking and action, and does the NRA have a liaison role in that regard? The discrepancies to which I referred should not be happening on a small island. Is there already a job of co-ordination for the NRA in this respect or is new legislation required to assign it powers to that end?

I take this opportunity to compliment the NRA on all its good work in County Kerry, its co-operation with interested parties and allocation of moneys to various projects. The latest example is the Tralee-Dingle road which only last week saw Mr. Barry paying a visit to the county. He has been down on several occasions to oversee the launch of a range of very welcome developments which are very important for the county in terms of attracting investment, for the tourism trade and for people who commute between the various towns. What is the latest information on the further development of the Tralee-Dingle road? I understand there is an issue with An Bord Pleanála, which Mr. Barry might explain. I also compliment the NRA on the further progress that has been made in bringing the Tralee bypass project to fruition. Will Mr. Barry indicate what progress has been made on the acquisition of lands and general progression of the proposed Farranfore bypass and the upgrading of the Tralee-Killarney route? I understand a funding allocation is due for the Ring of Kerry. I would like to see investment in that strategic route further enhanced into the future.

What is the NRA's policy regarding accident black spots? I understand there is a programme of priority action for such locations around the country. Will Mr. Barry comment on that? He may be aware of the stretch of road between the towns of Castlemaine and Milltown which has seen 30 incidents in recent years, the most recent last week at a place called Cluainmore. I have been in contact with Mr. Barry on this issue, as well as Mr. Noel Brett of the Road Safety Authority and Kerry County Council.