Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

As a representative of south Tipperary, I would press upon Ms Fitzpatrick to progress that Cahir to Waterford section, particularly as it applies to Clonmel.

I will use the second half of my allocated time to discuss the recent toll increases. The board of TII announced an increase of 10 cent to the M50 toll for tag users, which puzzles me, from 1 January. There was also a decision to increase the Dublin Port tunnel toll by €1 at peak times, going from €12 to €13. I want to be clear that I think the board of TII should reflect on that decision. I understand that under contractual obligations, the eight public-private partnership, PPP, motorways are outside its control, but TII has direct control over any decision to increase or reduce tolls on the M50 and at the Dublin Port tunnel. Once upon a time, these were optional routes but that is no longer the case. They are absolutely necessary for families and individuals getting to work, medical appointments and bringing children to school. The taxpayer has stepped up to the mark in terms of funding for TII for next year. The allocation of €2.8 billion this year will be increased to €3.4 billion next year, which is an increase of 19%. On the one hand, the taxpayer has provided more than one fifth of increased funding for next year. What does TII do? It taxes the taxpayer more by increasing these tolls. I cannot understand the decision to penalise tag users. They are the users who use the M50 the most so it is particularly unfair. I appeal to TII to reflect on the decision to increase those tolls. I would like the witnesses to bring that message back to the board. I am sure other members will raise the issue, particularly in the context of the substantial increase in funding provided by the taxpayer to TII for next year. For it to turn around and increase tolls, which are under its control, on the M50 and the Dublin Port tunnel at peak times is so unfair on hard-pressed motorists. I would like the witnesses to comment and I would like them to bring that message back to the board. I ask the board of TII to reflect on that decision.