Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 Apr 1991

Vol. 407 No. 1

Written Answers. - Closure of Border Roads.

Roger T. Garland

Question:

51 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline his views on the closure of the Border roads; his views on whether these closures are justified in terms of (1) increased security or (2) lower security costs; if this matter has been discussed with the authorities in Northern Ireland; if it has been the subject of discussions at the Anglo-Irish Conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Collins)

I am fully aware of the serious inconvenience and hardship that has been caused to communities on both sides of the Border by the closure of cross-Border roads. In this regard, it is my view that Border roads should not be closed except where security considerations clearly outweigh the inconvenience caused to local communities.

The closure of cross-Border roads has been repeatedly raised, both in general terms and in relation to specific crossings, through the Anglo-Irish Secretariat in Belfast and the British authorities have been kept fully informed of the views of the communities most affected. It has also been frequently on the agenda of the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, being most recently discussed at the last Conference meeting which was held in Belfast on the 9 April.

We shall continue to keep this issue under active review in the Conference and the Secretariat.