591. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the expenditure on the N2 Ardee to Castleblayney road scheme in each year since 2020; the reason the project was suspended; the stages which remain to be completed before the project can proceed to statutory planning; the indicative overall project cost; and if it remains Government policy to deliver the scheme. [63751/26]

592. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the current status of the N2 Ardee to Castleblayney road scheme; whether he has received proposals from Monaghan County Council and/or Transport Infrastructure Ireland regarding the completion of Phase 3 design; the funding required to complete that phase; whether he will sanction the necessary funding to allow the project to progress; the timeframe for a decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63750/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 591 and 592 together.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on the status of this project.

I can confirm that €500,000 has been allocated for the N2 Ardee to South of Castleblaney scheme in 2026.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.