Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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159. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if funding will be allocated in 2024 for the progression of a bridge replacement project in County Kerry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2293/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.

Any new road projects that seek funding are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code) and the Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.

In this regard, it is my understanding is that Kerry County Council are currently examining options for Listry Bridge, considering the needs and objectives, and deciding how best to progress to ensure value for money.

All applications received from local authorities for Specific Grant allocations are currently being assessed taking into account competing projects and the available budget. Specific Grant allocations for 2024 will be notified to local authorities as part of the general grant allocation process which will be issued in the coming weeks.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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160. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if funding will be allocated in 2024 for the progression of the N86 road improvement project in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2294/24]

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. 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 this project.

In 2023, €300,000 was allocated for the N86 Tralee to An Daingean scheme. Allocations for national roads in 2024 are expected to be announced in the near future.

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