Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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185. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide assurances that the N80 Mountmellick bypass will be prioritised for funding in any review and included in the next phase of the national development plan. [21309/23]

Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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186. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will raise with his senior officials and Transport Infrastructure Ireland the critical situation with the Mountmellick road N80 in Portlaoise town, which needs cycles lanes, three roundabouts and road safety measures, as identified by an expert group and Laois County Council. [21310/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 185 and 186 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and 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 and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on the status of the Mountmellick bypass and possible upgrades to the N80 in Portlaoise, which may include active travel measures.

In relation to the Active Travel part of your question, as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office. Regarding the potential role of the NTA in the matter, I have also referred your question to the NTA for their further consideration.