An investment programme of €713 million for maintaining and repairing regional and local roads across the country has been confirmed by the government.
Darragh O’Brien (Minister for Transport), and Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer (Ministers of State) announced the funding, saying it represented an 8 per cent increase this year for road and safety improvements on the network.
What did the ministers have to say about the programme?
Minister O’Brien said: “My main priority is the ongoing maintenance and renewal of the regional and local road network, alongside strategic investment in developing and improving the road infrastructure network.
“Rehabilitation and maintenance are fundamental to keeping the network in a good condition, and a significant increase in funding has been provided for in 2025, with most of the funding going towards restoration of the network. This is essential for maintaining social and economic connectivity, linking people and places across the country.
“In addition to maintaining our current road network, we are developing and upgrading this infrastructure through investing €70 million in vital strategic projects which are continuing to be progressed. These include those identified for development under the National Development Plan such as the Shannon Crossing and Killaloe Bypass project in Killaloe and Ballina, and the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road in Limerick City.”
What will that €70m entail beyond the schemes mentioned?
More than €20 million of it is being allocated under the ‘Specific Grant’ category for smaller-scale road improvements. These grants will fund projects such as bridge repairs, junction reconfigurations and anti-congestion traffic initiatives in urban areas. Beyond that, the money will be used to enhance access to educational institutions, businesses and public transport, and funded projects for 2025 include the rehabilitation of Ballycorkey Bridge in County Westmeath, and R595 Old Court, Skibbereen to Baltimore realignment in County Cork.
Anything else to add?
Mr Canney, Minister of State with responsibility for international and road transport, logistics, rail and ports, said: “This crucial funding will enhance road safety, with funding being allocated for over 330 safety projects this year, an increase of 20 per cent from last year.
“These safety schemes aim to implement remedial measures to improve the overall safety of our road network, benefiting all road users. Increasing funding in safety projects is vital in reducing road fatalities and serious injuries and helps to create a safer transport environment for all.
“In response to the constant environmental challenges, we are designating €16.5 million for 315 projects focused on climate change adaptation to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of our roads. Projects to be completed in 2025 under the Climate Adaptation grant vary from flood alleviation works at Castleblayney, County Monaghan, to seawall protection works at Aillroe/Erribul, County Clare.”
And Mr Buttimer, Minister of State with responsibility for rural transport, added: “I know just how important it is that we continue to invest in our rural road network. This funding totalling €713 million will support and enhance towns, villages and communities the length and breadth of the state. It’s an investment that will boost connectivity, support businesses, and make daily commutes to school, work and other activities easier and safer for families.”