Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
135. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the reason that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has reportedly advised local authorities to withhold planned road improvement tenders unless approval is received from TII; if this decision was the result of, or in line with, Government policy; the timeframe in which pavement improvement works announced in February will be tendered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36245/24]
View answerAs 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 operation and management 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 Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you regarding planned road improvement tenders.
There has been no reduction to the overall capital funding available for national roads in 2024, which was announced at the start of the year. A number of new road projects are facing funding pressures in 2024 due to reasons including an increased pace of delivery and land acquisition costs, as well as inflation and increased cost of materials which are higher than when the original estimates were calculated. This means the allocation will be spread on fewer projects than originally anticipated. This has resulted in the need to postpone some asset renewal works to ensure that the delivery of major new roads projects can continue. This is particularly the case where existing contracts are in place. It is important to note that any postponement is temporary in nature.
In order to ensure the continued delivery of these important projects, earlier this year TII proposed to postpone some asset renewal works on the existing network, including work to renew pavement, until 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. In addition, some Greenways funding will be used to advance active travel infrastructure on the national road network, which would otherwise be funded from the roads budget. This will allow funding to be directed to new roads projects. It is important to point out that Safety Improvement Schemes will not be effected by these measures.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if a reply is not received within 10 working days.
