Road Network

Thursday, 19 February 2026

Questions (255)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

255. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport when the contract agreed between the State and direct route, in relation to the operation and maintenance of the Fermoy-Rathcormac bypass in County Cork and the associated toll plazas at Condonstown, Watergrasshill and Ballyoran Fermoy is due to expire; if there is a buyout-release clause for the State in that contract before the contract is due to expire; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13986/26]

View answer

Written answers

Minister for Transport

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.

Noting the above position, I have referred the question regarding tolls to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.