Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 1011: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the original function and role of the National Roads Authority as per the relevant legislation; if he will plot the way its responsibilities have evolved to the present day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26853/12]

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 1013: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will outline the separation of powers and functions between the National Roads Authority and local authorities as regards the road network here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26860/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1011 and 1013 together.

The role and functions of the National Roads Authority (NRA) are as set out under the Roads Act 1993 as amended which is to secure the provision of a safe and efficient network of national roads. For this purpose, it has overall responsibility for planning and supervision of construction and maintenance works on these roads. Historically, the NRA has discharged these functions through the relevant local road authorities. However, it is empowered, where it considers it would be more convenient, expeditious, effective or economical to do so to carry out such functions directly. The NRA also has a general power to direct a road authority in regard to the construction or maintenance of a national road.

Additionally, in September 2009, at the request of the then Minister the NRA undertook to administer the provision of grants to local authorities for the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads on foot of funds transferred from the Department.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 1012: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a detailed breakdown of the National Roads Authority expenditure on projects and personnel from the period 2005 to 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26857/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act. Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.