Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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158. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department will provide funding for a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6956/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Once funding arrangements have been put in place with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), 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 TII, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Public Spending Code and the necessary statutory approvals.In this context, TII is best placed to advise on the current status of this project.

I can advise that this project has been remitted back to An Bord Pleanála for consideration after the High Court quashed the previous decision to grant planning approval to this project. It is for the Board to reconsider the project in light of this and taking the most recent Climate Action Plan into account. The Board will also consider whether further information is required to aid their deliberations.

I can also advise that allocations for National Roads in 2023 will be announced by TII in the near future.

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