Vol. 417 No. 2
87 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance if he will arrange with the Office of Public Works to securely fence off the gap in the wall opposite Portland Street North, Dublin 1, bordering the Royal Canal as this location is extremely hazardous for children, of concern to local residents and is a major eyesore with stolen cars driven into the canal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The Royal Canal between Drumcondra Road and the entrance to the River Liffey at Spencer Dock will be dredged this year as part of the final phase of the restoration of the city sections of the canal. Because of the restricted access for vehicles onto the canal bank from Binn's Bridge, it will be necessary to bring the dredging plant on to the canal from Portland Street North. Temporary fencing will be erected when the dredging plant is on site.
The Office of Public Works are aware of the serious problems for local residents caused by the break in the boundary of the canal property at the junction of Portland Place and Portland Street North. Representatives of the Office of Public Works will consult the adjoining property owners and Dublin Corporation with a view to having a suitable permanent fence or barrier erected across the gap as soon as possible after the dredging has been completed.
