asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that, as a result of the increased burden placed on the county roads in Monaghan by the closing down of passenger traffic on the G.N.R. and the blocking of several roads by the Six Countries Government, the condition of the county roads is seriously deteriorating; and whether, in the special circumstances of this county, any special funds can be made available for the maintenance and improvement of these over-taxed country roads.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Monaghan County Roads.
I recently explained to a deputation from the Monaghan County Council that, while I have every sympathy for the case made by them and by other county councils similarly placed, I cannot for the present make any extra funds available over and above the ordinary grant of £73,700 which has been allocated to them for county road improvement this year.
Is the Minister aware, as he appears to be aware, that the burden cast upon the roads in County Monaghan, as in County Donegal, is quite in excess of the normal user of these roads, and of what should be the normal burden on the ratepayers to maintain their roads in proper condition as a result of external circumstances over which the ratepayers have no control, and will the Minister take the matter up with the Government to make special provisions for the ratepayers of County Monaghan, whatever he may do in regard to the ratepayers of County Donegal?
I have been doing that, but my reply still stands.
We shall give you energetic support.