Séamus McGrath (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)
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294. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will request that the barrier tolls on the M7 and M8 be waived on Sunday, 20 July 2025, the day of the all-Ireland hurling final; if waiving of the fees is not possible, if he would recommend a system of online self-declaration and barrier-free travel on that day; and if it is intended to introduce barrier-free tolling on a permanent basis on the M7 and M8 in the future. [39051/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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 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). Moreover, the contracts for the privately-operated toll schemes are commercial agreements between TII and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) concessionaires concerned. This includes the M7/M8 schemes.

Noting the above position, I have referred the question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to plans for handling larger traffic volumes at toll plazas, including All-Ireland Final traffic. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.