Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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67. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the options his Department is considering to manage traffic capacity issues on the M50; if the introduction of additional tolling is the preferred option; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25252/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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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. 

While the 2014 M50 Demand Management Study recommended the introduction of multi-point tolling on the M50, my consistent position has been that I do not propose to introduce such tolls as the likely impact of multi-point tolling would be to push vehicles on to other roads and through local communities. 

 My view is that the emphasis at this point needs to be on addressing congestion across the Greater Dublin Area (GDA)  and the National Transport Authority's (NTA) Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area provides the overarching framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services over the next two decades. Addressing urban congestion on both the strategic road network and locally in certain locations is an important theme in the Strategy.

As TII has operational responsibility for the M50, I have referred the Deputy's question to TII for direct reply in relation to the specific measures being taken and planned by TII regarding the operation of the M50.  Please advise my private office if you don't receive a reply within 10 working days.