196. Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan asked the Minister for Transport the additional emergency funding that was allocated to each local authority for the repair and to reconstruct roads damaged by flooding during Storm Chandra; the amount that has been drawn down by each of the local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47598/26]

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 Councils’ own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is a matter for the local authority.

In February 2026, the Department announced an Exchequer investment of €718 million in our regional and local roads across the State, with approximately 90% of this funding allocated to road maintenance and renewal. This will facilitate an increase in funding allocation of €26 million this year for road protection and renewal works.

It should be noted that Exchequer funding for regional and local roads is intended to supplement realistic contributions from local authorities’ own resources. Local authorities are also advised to set aside a contingency from Department allocations and own resources for severe weather events. As the statutory road authorities for their areas, it is also open to local authorities to prioritise investment on regional and local roads.

My Department has liaised with local authorities most affected by Storm Chandra on the damage caused to their regional and local roads and the remediation needed. Next steps in this regard are being considered in conjunction with the relevant Government departments.