Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
182. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Transport whether consideration is being given to a dedicated or additional funding stream to address the unique challenges associated with peat-based roads in counties such as Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2848/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with approximately 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Offaly County Council in conjunction with the Department of Transport have been working on a pilot project investigating the rehabilitation of roads over peat. The pilot project is to help identify innovative solutions in dealing with the issue of roads over peat.
Between 2022 and 2025, Offaly County Council has been allocated funding of €3,800,000 for this pilot project. Grant allocations for 2026 will be notified to local authorities in the coming weeks.
