I wish to raise again the carparks that many of our motorways have become as they approach Dublin. Specifically today, I raise the urgent need to provide park and ride and secure park-and-share facilities at strategic points along these motorways. On my way in to Dublin this morning I counted 15 cars parked at the hard shoulder at the Ballitore M9 junction. These motorists are car-pooling and reducing the number of cars on these motorways. The same is happening at the Castledermot junction and, I am told, at other locations along the motorways.

What plans does the Government have to provide park-and-ride facilities along these motorways? These cars parking on the hard shoulders are subject to damage and they need secure parking. They are helping with a dire situation on our motorways by reducing the amount of traffic on those roads each day.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. TII and NTA are examining all these issues on an ongoing basis. Investment in public transport is happening apace. That will be key to reducing pressure on our roads. However, there is no easy solution in the short term. Park and ride does work. We will work and support the agencies and councils in respect of such facilities.