Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 597: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if there are plans for a service station on the M6 between Ballinasloe, County Galway and Galway City; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33313/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual national roads are matters for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. In particular, the allocation of funding in relation to the construction or maintenance of national road projects, including service area projects, is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act. In addition under section 54 of the Roads Act 1993, as amended by section 10 of the Roads Act 2007, the NRA has a specific responsibility in relation to agreements to build and operate motorway service areas.

Subject to planning permission, the private sector may also develop off-line service areas, and related facilities, without direct involvement by the NRA in their development.

As regards the M6 Galway to Ballinasloe road, I understand that the NRA's plan to build an on-line service area on the M6/N18 junction is now on hold and will not progress in the short to medium term.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.