Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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1891. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of the budget that he allocated for Fintra bridge on the R263 in southwest Donegal; the timetable for the start of construction; the completion date for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29011/17]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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1892. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for funding Tir Chonaill street bridge in Donegal town as sanctioned by his Department; the construction period for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29012/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1891 and 1892 together.

​The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads (including bridges) is the statutory responsibility of Donegal 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, prioritisation and timeline for commencement and completion of construction of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.

In May 2017, Donegal County Council applied to my Department for additional funding to progress work on two regional road bridges in County Donegal (Tirconnaill Bridge in Donegal town and Fintra Bridge on the R263). The funding request consisted of a deck replacement and associated works for Tirconnaill Bridge and the construction of a new replacement Fintra bridge 

I have given approval to Donegal County Council to proceed with the replacement of Tirconnail bridge at a maximum cost of €700,000. Given the need to update the tender package and to go through the procurement process, I understand it will be year-end before construction can commence on this scheme. The timeline for completion of the works is a matter for the local authority. 

In respect of the construction of a new replacement bridge at on the R263 at Fintra, Co. Donegal, my officials have confirmed that further engagement is required at engineering level between the Council and my Department regarding options for this bridge.  A report is being sought from Donegal County Council which would set out further options taking account of the requirements of the applicable design standard (the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges). That process is continuing and no allocation can be confirmed in respect of that project until that process concludes. However, it should be noted that I, and my Department, are committed to the project.