Dáil Éireann - Volume 657 - 18 June, 2008

Written Answers. - Road Network.

Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progress to date of a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23914/08]

  Deputy Noel Dempsey: The provision of regional and local roads, including bridges, in its area is a function of the relevant road authority to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State grants. Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary County Councils have undertaken the development of a proposal for a new Shannon Crossing.

From 2004 to the end of 2007, State road grants totalling approximately €460,000 have been provided to the authorities to develop proposals for a new Shannon Crossing Bridge. Clare County Council is now the lead authority for the project and this year a grant of €400,000 was allocated to the Council for the scheme.

In February this year, Clare County Council, in association with North Tipperary County Council, appointed consultants to carry out a constraints study, route selection and preliminary design for the scheme. Further progression of the project is a matter for Clare County Council.