In a unique deal, the National Roads Authority of Ireland has guaranteed a ‘minimum traffic level’ contract to Eurolink, under which the shortfall on the company-operated M3 motorway in Dublin will be paid by the public.

The people using the motorway may have to pay up to €11.20 daily for the motorway’s two toll plazas charging €2.80 each per day if the toll income does not reach the minimum set target.

The NRA has not specified what the minimum target will be.

The motorway, to be opened next year, will have two toll plazas charging €2.80 each, resulting in an €11.20 daily fee for anyone commuting from north of Kells into Dublin.

The operators are expected to make an estimated €580m over the 30-year contract.