asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason Aghalane bridge has not been rebuilt; if Fermanagh County Council are anxious to have the road reopened; the steps he has taken that this national primary road will be reopened; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Re-opening of Border Road.
12.
As I have stated on a number of occasions in this House, the policy of the Government is that the closure of cross-Border roads and bridges is counterproductive both politically and in terms of security.
Aghalane bridge is situated on the border between County Cavan and County Fermanagh. The bridge was destroyed in an explosion in 1972 and a replacement bailey bridge erected in place of the original structure was destroyed in a bomb explosion a year later.
I fully appreciate the significance of Aghalane bridge and the inconvenience its removal has caused to people residing in the locality. I am also aware of the detrimental economic effect which its destruction has had on the town of Belturbet which has been cut off from its natural hinterland in Fermanagh.
I have frequently raised the question of Aghalane bridge with the British authorities, whose co-operation would be required if this cross-Border bridge were to be reconstructed; in their response they have referred to the security problems which would arise if this crossing point was again restored. I will continue to raise this matter with the British authorities with a view to a satisfactory solution.