asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the reasons why such a large sum is being demanded by his Department for the bridge spanning the Shannon at Castleconnell and Doonass, when it can only have scrap value; if he is aware that this bridge is a very useful amenity to the residents of these districts; that Limerick and Clare County Councils are prepared to meet the cost of repairing, strengthening and maintaining this structure; and if he will, in the circumstances, indicate that he is prepared to dispose of it at a more reasonable price.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Castleconnell and Doonass Bridge.
The footbridge over the River Shannon at Doonass was erected in 1942 at a cost of £1,724 8s. 10d. It has been offered to the Limerick County Council for the sum of £862 4s. 5d., which is half the cost of construction, as representations were made to me that the bridge would be of great use to residents of the nearby districts.
I am aware that an Order has been made under Section 36 of the Local Government (Ireland) Act, 1898, authorising the Limerick County Council to exercise the powers conferred by the said section in relation to the purchase and support of the bridge and authorising the Clare County Council to exercise the powers conferred by paragraph (b) of the section to contribute to the purchase and support of the bridge.
Having regard to the original cost of the bridge and to the amenity which it provides, it is not unreasonable to ask the local authorities to contribute a share of the cost.