Senator calls for solutions-focused talks on future of M1 Drogheda toll

Fianna Fáil Senator Alison Comyn has said that any engagement on the future of the M1 Drogheda toll must be solutions-focused, following her recent call in the Seanad for a meeting with the Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien.

“When I raised the impact of the Drogheda toll in the Seanad on December 9th, I formally called for a meeting with the Minister for Transport because this issue now requires direct, focused engagement,” Senator Comyn says.

“I also set out one practical solution that could deliver immediate relief — a locally targeted arrangement where local drivers who enter Drogheda to shop, work or visit and exit again within a defined timeframe would have their toll waived or significantly reduced. That kind of measure would support local businesses and ease pressure on traffic and residents without reopening settled contractual issues.”

The Senator says her Seanad contribution also acknowledged the sustained efforts of previous and current TDs, local councillors and community campaigners, while recognising the long-established position that Transport Infrastructure Ireland will not cancel the existing tolling contract, which remains in place until 2034.

“Given that reality, we now have a responsibility to come together locally and focus on alternatives and mitigations that can actually be delivered,” she adds.

“That is how we strengthen Drogheda’s case when engaging with the Minister.”

Senator Comyn also acknowledged a recent motion brought forward by Cllr James Byrne at Louth County Council, describing it as a ‘constructive contribution that reflects growing agreement on the need to pursue practical solutions within the current framework’.

“The location of the toll is having a detrimental impact on the economic and social fabric of Drogheda,” Cllr. Byrne said.

There have been sustained efforts over many years to remove or mitigate the M1 motorway toll near Drogheda. These include repeated parliamentary questions and debates, motions at local authority level, and community campaigns highlighting its impact on local traffic and commuters.

During periods of disruption, including the Obelisk Bridge closure, elected representatives also sought temporary suspension of the toll. Proposals to buy out the remaining PPP contract have been raised, but to date the toll remains in place due to the binding contract with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, which runs until 2034.

Senator Comyn says a united local approach would be essential ahead of any meeting with the Minister.

“This issue goes beyond party politics,” she adds. “If we engage with the Minister on the basis of realism, cooperation and clear proposals, we stand a far better chance of achieving meaningful progress for Drogheda”.