Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent)
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307. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will give permission for an emergency temporary pedestrian footbridge across the Owenriff River, Oughterard to ensure pedestrian safety particularly for the 600 schoolchildren who traverse the river daily across a narrow bridge without footpaths; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18328/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and securing exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the improvement and upgrading of individual national roads, including bridges, is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.This is also subject to the Public Spending Code Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you with respect to a bridge across the Owenriff River at Oughterard.

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