asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware that the proposed route for the Newbridge by-pass will take it within 200 yards of a large housing estate; if he believes that this is the most satisfactory arrangement in view of the fact that there are many possible alternative routes available which would keep it away from this densely populated estate; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Newbridge (Kildare) Motorway By-Pass.
516.
The development of proposals for a motorway by-pass of New-bridge is primarily a matter for Kildare County Council.
The statutory procedures relating to a motorway scheme require me to cause a public local inquiry into all matters relating to the scheme to be held and to consider any objections lodged. It will be open to any person to attend or be represented at the inquiry and to give evidence. Following the inquiry, I will be obliged to make a decision on the motorway scheme.
In view of my quasi-judicial functions in relation to the inquiry, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to make any comment on the scheme at this stage.