The state on the national secondary roads in Kerry, particularly the N70 is beyond appalling.
That’s according to Fine Gael councillor Tommy Griffin, who tabled a motion for funding to address the routes surface.
Speaking at the recent Castleisland-Corca Dhuibhne MD meeting, he slammed Transport Infrastructure Ireland, describing them as "invisible".
Cllr Tommy Griffin urged Kerry County Council to address the road surface on the N70 Castlemaine to Tralee road.
He says over 6,000 cars travel this route each day and claims it’s been a quarter of a century since any substantial surfacing works have been done on the road.
Cllr Griffin stated the sections at the top of the mountain are like a patch quilt, while the bumps on the road at Ballyreameen would hold pride of place in a skate park.
In response, the council said the condition of the N70 will be assessed and the findings will be brought to the attention of TII for consideration.
Cllr Griffin aired his frustration at Transport Infrastructure Ireland, describing them as not accountable and invisible.
He also questioned what TII's definition of an emergency is, noting that an emergency application was made for funding along the N86 in May, and the council is still awaiting a reply.
Cllr Griffin stated emergency means emergency and urgent, and the TII going over six months without a reply is unacceptable.
He says the state of the national secondary roads across Kerry is appalling, while the local road network in the county is second to none.
The Fine Gael councillor stated if the TII can’t manage the national or secondary road system, they should give it back to Kerry County Council.
Cllr Griffin urged council management to request the TII to come before elected members to address their concerns.
