Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Will the Minister consider the establishment of a cross-departmental group to drive the A5 and other road projects?

I understand the Government agreed to put aside £25 million per annum in the 2015 and 2016 budgets for cross-Border road improvement projects. However, that £50 million has not been provided in the Department’s capital budget, and it has sought guidance from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. What is the update on this position?

I am concerned about the shortfall of €50 million on the Narrow Water bridge project. How did such a discrepancy arise? Has Louth County Council given a credible explanation for this? Experts are working on these projects, and it is worrying.

How does the Minister propose to address the issue of the Narrow Water bridge project and road upgrade projects at the next North-South Ministerial Council meeting in April?

Monaghan County Council wants €1.5 million to complete the design phase of the N2 Clontibret-Aughnacloy upgrade. The Department, however, estimates that the upgrade costs will be in the region of €2 million. We put this to the Monaghan county manager yesterday and he reiterated that it would cost €1.5 million. Will the Minister provide more clarity on his Department's position on this?