131. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport when a project (details supplied) will go to tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37124/24]

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.

The R498 Latteragh Upgrade scheme is one of the limited number of strategic regional and local road improvement schemes being undertaken under the National Development Plan.

Planning and implementation of the R498 Latteragh Upgrade scheme is the responsibility of Tipperary County Council. My understanding is that archaeological excavations are underway on the site and the scheme is now at detailed design and contract preparation stage together with land acquisition.