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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 May 1977

Vol. 299 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Drawbridge.

30.

asked the Minister for Local Government if he will sanction the erection of a drawbridge at Belmullet, County Mayo.

Mayo County Council's proposal for a swing bridge involves complex and costly considerations and is still being examined. I hope to be in a position shortly to communicate with the council in the matter.

How far have the proposals for the erection of a bridge advanced? Are the plans ready?

I am sure the Deputy is aware that a lot of complex matters are involved, including the making of an order which would have to be done without proceeding to a local public inquiry. The matter is very complicated and if the Deputy would care to call to see me I will give him the particulars I have on this.

Is the Minister aware that there is an urgency about this because of the state of the present structure and the development of Ballyglass harbour? It is very difficult to get machinery across this structure because of its state.

I should like to inform the Deputy that the cost of a swing bridge would be in the region of £150,000 in excess of the cost of a fixed bridge which would be roughly £50,000 at present prices. A swing bridge would be of no advantage over a fixed bridge unless extensive dredging operations which would cost millions of pounds were undertaken in the canal and approach channels. The existing swing bridge has now operated as a swing bridge for more than 40 years. Traffic needs in the area do not warrant the construction of a swing bridge involving extensive outlay. The holding of a local inquiry would not serve any useful purpose and the necessity for a bridge order for a swing bridge has not been established. They are some of the reasons why this is a complicated matter.

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