John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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308. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress made to implement a variable speed limit regime on the M50 to improve its operational efficiency by smoothing traffic flow; when this measure will be fully implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28354/19]

John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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309. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress made on the implementation of lane control signalling on the M50 to facilitate the rapid deployment of lane closures in order to protect road users and emergency services during an incident on the route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28355/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 308 and 309 together.

A critical factor in implementing a new Variable Speed Limit regime and the ability to deploy lane closures is the need to enact legislation which will underpin the new proposals. Arising from the prioritisation of urgent legislation to address some of the risks consequent on the UK's intention to leave the European Union, it has not been possible to progress the legislation as quickly as originally intended. However the Department continues to work on the required legislation.

It is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to implement improvements to infrastructure on the M50 to facilitate a Variable Speed Limit regime and the deployment of lane closures. As Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the planning, design and upgrading of individual national roads is a matter for TII in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Noting the above position, I have referred the questions to TII for a more detailed reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.