Rose Conway-Walsh (Mayo, Sinn Fein)
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88. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps taken to ensure proper public access and consultation in respect of infrastructure projects during restrictions related to Covid-19; the steps taken to ensure those with limited digital skills or a lack of internet connectivity are not disadvantaged in the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8240/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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To facilitate continued public participation in the planning process, the Government announced emergency planning measures in October 2020. These measures are intended to protect the rights of people to comment on planning applications, including transport-related applications, submitted during the current period of Covid-19 restrictions.

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In the case of regional and local roads local authorities are responsible for implementation of road schemes and as the contracting authority are responsible for arrangements relating to public consultation. Similarly for National roads, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and / or local authorities are responsible for arrangements relating to public consultation.

With regard to public transport infrastructure projects, in light of the role of the National Transport Authority in planning and developing public transport projects, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NTA for consideration and separate response.

Please contact my Private Office if you have not received a response within 10 working days.