asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the British authorities built a portion of a barrier in County Monaghan at Drumully, Clones; the action he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cross-Border Roads.
52.
I am aware that the Border crossing at Leitrim Bridge, Drumully, County Monaghan, was closed by the British authorities some years ago by means of a Braithwaite tank (a steel container filled with concrete).
In August last the British authorities arranged for a second Braithwaite tank to be placed across the bridge by a civilian contractor in order to close the crossing more completely. I am aware that a portion of the second Braithwaite tank is alleged to be partly within the jurisdiction. The matter has been raised with the British authorities and it has been accepted by them that the second Braithwaite tank should be moved. Arrangements are being made for this purpose.
As I have already stated in the House the policy of the Government in respect of the closure of cross-Border roads is that such closures cause hardship to local communities on both sides of the Border and are counter-productive both politically and in terms of security. The British authorities have been made fully aware of this policy.