253. Deputy Mark Wall asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the provision of a priority bus lane on the M4. [64986/26]

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.

The Department of Transport has been working closely with TII to progress the legislative changes required to facilitate the opening of the M4 Bus Priority Lane. I am pleased to say that the necessary Statutory Instruments were signed by me on 13th May and the M4 Bus Priority Lane is now operational.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to the latest status in relation to the bus priority lane on the M4. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.