Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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194. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the significant environmental and biodiversity impact on the Ardee bog if the current plans for the proposed N52 Ardee bypass proceed; the reason it has taken 21 years after initiating the project to retroactively undertake an environmental impact assessment; if his attention has been further drawn the destruction of the endangered curlew’s habitat as a result of illegal fencing installed as part of the project in 2019; his plans to protect the Ardee bog and the biodiversity in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45801/21]

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 planning, design and construction of individual national roads 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 in relation to this proposed scheme.

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.