Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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298. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he is concerned about the financial liability to the State due to the traffic guarantee clauses in the M3 and Limerick tunnel toll contracts; if these payments will increase over the coming years as a result of the efforts to move persons to public transport modes thereby reducing traffic levels on these motorways; the estimated liability for such from now until the expiry of both contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2396/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport 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).

With regard to the payment mechanism associated with M3 and Limerick Tunnel, it is a contractual obligation which incorporates a traffic guarantee mechanism. Therefore, the contracts for the privately-operated toll schemes are commercial agreements between TII and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) concessionaires concerned.

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