asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that (i) the bridge over the Blackwater at Youghal was closed to heavy vehicular traffic in December, 1938, because of its dangerous condition and that the continued restriction on the use of this bridge has had and is having a very harmful effect on traders and others in the town of Youghal; (ii) that although a bridge Order was granted to the Cork County Council some months ago to enable them to proceed with the preliminary survey for the construction of a new bridge, no survey or other preparatory work has yet been carried out; and, if so, what steps he proposes taking to ensure that this work is undertaken immediately.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - New Bridge at Youghal.
I am aware that traffic on the bridge is restricted, but a bridge Order cannot be made under the Local Government Act, 1946, until certain preliminary matters are investigated and application for a bridge Order has been made. The Act provides for the submission of a preliminary report by an authority named by me. A local inquiry will then be held after which I will make a bridge Order specifying the authority to carry out the work and fixing the financial contributions to be made by the various authorities concerned.
Application for a bridge Order was received in my Department on the 27th April last and on the 5th May the Cork County Council were instructed to prepare the preliminary report. I understand that the county council are arranging for the employment of a consulting engineer for that purpose.
In view the urgency of this matter, can ster say how far the county council have gone with their arranges for the appointment of a ing engineer and will he urge pedite the matter at their This is a very very serious matter has been pending for 11 years and has ever been done. I would ate very much if the Minist expedite matters where the county council is concerned.
The question of the appointment of a consulting engineer was on the agenda for the Junting of the county council but it not reached and it will come up on the 18th July.
Thank you, Sir.