Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Míle buíochas don Teachta as ucht a chomhghairdeas. I thank the Deputy for the question. This has long been a matter of concern to him and the people of Tipperary, particularly the residents of Tipperary town and those who use the N24.

This project forms part of a 35 km improvement scheme for the N24 between Cahir in County Tipperary and Limerick Junction. The proposed project would include bypasses of Tipperary town and Bansha, enhance regional accessibility and improve connectivity between Limerick and Waterford.

By removing through traffic from a number of towns, there would be greater safety for road users and increased capacity on the network for both public transport and freight traffic. There would also be scope for urban environment improvements and improvements to the public realm and facilities in towns and villages, particularly the Deputy’s own town in Tipperary. This would have a positive social benefit for residents and encourage walking and cycling in the area.

The project is currently progressing through the design and environmental evaluation phase, during which detailed design of the project is undertaken, along with the preparation of land acquisition documentation and surveys. Transport Infrastructure Ireland has advised my Department that it is anticipated that this phase will conclude in the second half of this year, after which a preliminary business case will be submitted to my Department, as per the infrastructure guidelines.

With regard to the fast-tracking of individual elements of the overall project, the delivery programme will be clearer once the current project phase has concluded. However, my officials will continue to engage with TII with regard to this project, including, I can assure the Deputy, on the feasibility of fast-tracking elements of the project such as the Tipperary town bypass.

Subject to the Government's approval of the preliminary business case, the project will then proceed through the statutory processes, which will include an application for planning approval to An Bord Pleanála. It is expected that this application will be made in the first half of 2026.

See this speech in context