asked the Minister for the Environment the position regarding the provision of a new bridge over the River Shannon in Limerick city.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick New Bridge.
17.
A public local inquiry was held in October 1979 to consider objections against confirmation of the Mallow Street Bridge Compulsory Purchase Order, 1979. This inquiry was held concurrent with the inquiry into the application of Limerick Corporation for a bridge order for the construction of a new bridge at Mallow Street. At the inquiry it transpired that all the lands required for the project were not included in the compulsory purchase order. A further compulsory purchase order for the purpose of acquiring additional lands has recently been received from Limerick Corporation, who have been asked for some additional information. As soon as this information is supplied, arrangements will me made to hold the necessary inquiry. I intend to make my decision on both compulsory purchase orders and the bridge order simultaneously.
Is the Minister aware that the traffic chaos in Limerick is worsening every day and that it is of primary importance to business people, pedestrians and motorists to have this bridge provided as soon as possible? Is he further aware that he has now included in this bridge order a third party, Limerick County Council, because a clearance certificate will be required from them? When the public sworn inquiry was taking place he should have anticipated that that problem would arise. It appears to me that the Minister and the Government are playing for time because they have not got the money to provide this essential bridge in Limerick city.
As I indicated in my reply, the hold-up can be in no way attributed to me or my Department. It is a matter for Limerick Corporation. When everything is cleared up there will be no delay on our part.
In order to expedite this matter is the Minister prepared to ensure that co-operation will be forthcoming from Limerick County Council with Limerick Corporation?
We have been in constant touch with Limerick Corporation and we will be again.
Limerick County Council are the third party and the bridge order could be fouled up without their co-operation.
As far as I am concerned, there will be no avoidable delay and I will get in touch with Limerick County Council if that will help.