Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. Is it the case that funding for local road schemes has not been increased for the past two years and has stood at €6 million a year? Does the Minister agree that, given rising costs and expenses, it is not good enough to say that this will be sufficient to do all the work needed in rural areas, particularly disadvantaged rural areas? Those of us who are canvassing in Kildare North and Meath may not necessarily be in the CLÁR areas, but we know the importance of safety at primary schools. More input is needed from the Minister's Department and the State in looking after the safety and well-being of young children using our primary schools, particularly in rural areas. Will the Minister agree there is a significant number of rural roads that need this funding and it is a shame and a disgrace that the funding has not been increased this year?

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