Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

Let us consider the issue of tolling and Government policy. Tolling has recently received widespread media coverage because of the increase in toll charges on the M50. I would like the House to debate the purpose and location of toll booths across the country. Only yesterday at the M3 inquiry did we hear that there will be a toll booth located on the approach road to a park and ride facility on the Navan Road which is to accommodate 1,200 vehicles. If there is to be joined-up thinking, we cannot continue with the ludicrous practice of encouraging people to use park and ride facilities while charging them a toll to gain access thereto.

I have no objection to tolling across the country. It is part of the programme for Government and part of our road building programme. I would like to hear a wide ranging debate on the M50, traffic congestion around Dublin and how tolling can be a means to resolving our difficulties.