Michael Cahill
Question:237. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport when works will be carried out to a bridge (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31680/26]
View answerThursday, 30 April 2026
Questions (237)
Written answers
I understand that Kerry County Council is examining options for Listry Bridge, considering the needs and objectives, and deciding how best to progress to ensure value for money.
In accordance with Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, as amended, the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority. Work on such roads is funded from Councils' own resources, supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of work to be funded is a matter for local authorities.
For 2026, €718 million was allocated, through State road grants, for the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads, with approximately 90% of this funding allocated to road maintenance and renewal and the remainder directed towards new roads, bridges, and road realignments. This total allocation will facilitate an increase in funding of €26 million this year for road protection and renewal work.
In 2026, Kerry County Council was allocated a total of €31,367,325. Of this, €28,917,325 was for the protection and renewal of regional and local roads and €2,450,000 was for new roads and road improvement.
Any new road projects that seek funding are assessed by my Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines and my 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.