Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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1039. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the most recent cost to the State to buyout the operator of the M1 toll at Gormanstown; the number of years left to run in the contract and separately, to buyout the Drogheda interchange ramp tolls; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2780/20]

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.  Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.  Therefore, matters relating to the day to day operations regarding national roads, including toll roads and the establishment of a system of tolls, are within the remit of TII.  More specifically, the statutory power to levy tolls, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into agreements with private investors are vested in TII under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended).  Agreements between TII and Toll operators are contractual obligations between both parties.

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