Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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368. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the condition of a road in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38892/14]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I note the Deputy's question refers to the condition of a road at Barraduff, Co. Kerry but the attached Representation refers to the road on both sides of the village.  It is unclear therefore, whether this PQ refers to the N72 which runs through the centre of the village, or to the R570 which is at both sides.   

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, such as the N72 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 10 working days.

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads (such as the R570) is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in this case Kerry County Council in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.  The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority and I have no function in the matter.