Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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190. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason farmers (details supplied) are receiving less remuneration under an agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3557/24]

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.

I welcome the new agreement on the acquisition of land for national roads, which was concluded in December. It provides for a payment of €6,500 per acre for land on which Notice to Treat is served between January 1st 2022 and December 31st 2027. This builds on the previous agreement which was applicable from 2016 to 2021 and which provided for a payment of €3,000 per acre. The increase reflects greater prices for agricultural land along with increases to the Consumer Price Index. Previous such agreements between TII and the IFA have proven to be an effective method in providing for early engagement with landowners, and facilitating access to lands whilst statutory processes are ongoing.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply to provide you with further details regarding the applicability of the new agreement. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.