Fianna Fáil TD for Donegal Charlie McConalogue says the condition of roads across the county is worsening as a result of the Government’s failure to provide adequate funding for repair and maintenance work.
The latest figures reveal that the funding allocation for roads in Donegal this year is €15.72m less than what’s needed to maintain them.
Deputy McConalogue commented, “Road surfaces across Donegal have been deteriorating over the past number of years, however the funding allocation for this year is well below what is needed to keep the roads in good condition. In fact, the national spending average from 2013 to 2016 reveals that the allocation is 48% below what is needed to maintain the road network.
“The Department of Transport sets out a “steady state” level, below which funding levels should not drop. However, the allocation for Donegal is almost €16m behind target. This is completely unacceptable.
“I am particularly disappointed by Minister Ross’ failure to restore the Local Improvement Scheme, which was traditionally an important source of funding for isolated and neglected roads and lanes that have not been taken in charge by local authorities. This is despite a clear commitment in the Programme for Government to restore this scheme.
“There are a number of roads and junctions across the county which are a major cause of concern, and it’s deeply worrying that the Government is failing to provide the necessary funding to ensure that essential repairs and maintenance can be carried out.
“This funding is extremely important and I would urge Minister Ross to carefully consider the impact that these funding cuts are having on local communities and to commit to at least meet his Department’s own “steady state” targets to ensure a certain standard of road conditions”.
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