asked the Minister for Local Government if any plans exist to construct a ring road around Dublin city along the canal route; if so, what stage these plans have reached; if he will guarantee that on completion of the drainage scheme the Grand Canal will be restored and reopened; and when the drainage scheme will be completed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grand Canal.
29.
As indicated in my reply to Questions Nos. 19-22 on 12th December, 1967, I understand that the recommendation by Professor Schaechterle that a road should be constructed along the general line of the canal as part of the urban road network, as well as other recommendations relating to that network, is being examined in the corporation. No proposal for such a road has been submitted to me nor am I aware that any such proposal has been submitted to the city council.
As regards the drainage scheme I would also refer to my replies to previous questions in which I indicated that the agreement to the temporary closure of the canal was in principle only until such time as it is established that a scheme which will permit the restoration of the canal is feasible. I could not say at this stage when the drainage scheme is likely to be completed.