asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware of a demand from the residents of Valentia, County Kerry, for the erection of a bridge to connect the island with the mainland; and whether, in order to clarify the position with regard to the local controversy surrounding the project, he will institute a public and, if necessary, a sworn inquiry to finalise the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Kerry Bridge.
The Kerry County Council have been informed that it has been decided to hold a public local inquiry into the proposal for the erection of a bridge between the mainland and Valentia Island. Due public notice will be given as to the time and place of the inquiry.
Will the Minister ensure that due public notice will be given to all interested parties so that they may be represented at the inquiry, and further, will he ensure that the proposed inquiry will be held in the immediate future?
Would the Minister consider that this is a scheme that could be dealt with through the money provided under the National Development Fund? It was suggested in the previous Government's period of office that that scheme could be financed mainly from the National Development Fund with a contribution from the Kerry County Council. Would the Minister consider that aspect of the proposal before holding the inquiry?
I can assure the Deputy that there was no decision taken by my predecessor on the actual site of the proposed bridge. I can assure Deputy Palmer that due notice of the inquiry will be given to all interested parties and that the inquiry will be held as soon as possible.
I did not say there was a decision taken. I said the recommendation was made by myself and other Deputies that the scheme could be financed from the National Development Fund. Surely, that must be on the records of the Department?
That does not arise on the question. The question I am asked is whether I will order an inquiry to be held to clarify the position. I have assured the Deputy who asked the question that I will and that it will be held in the immediate future.