Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 April 2015
27. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the A5 and on his recent engagement with his Northern Ireland counterparts in relation to this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16497/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraImplementation of the A5 upgrade project is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland authorities. The quashing by the High Court in 2013 of the Minister for Regional Development's approval for the construction of two sections of the road has resulted in significant delay. Since the High Court decision the Northern Ireland authorities have been working on the additional evaluations needed in relation to the project. The Department for Regional Development has completed public consultation exercises on four reports intended to address impacts on all areas with Environmental designations, including Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas and Ramsar sites, together with proposed mitigation measures.
The A5 project was discussed at the Transport sector meeting of the North South Ministerial Council last week. The Council noted that work on the new draft Statutory Orders and new Environmental Statement is now complete and, when published, will be subject to public consultation which may lead to a further Public Inquiry.
I will continue to liaise with my Northern colleagues on the project through the Transport Sector of the North South Ministerial Council.
