Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Jun 1992

Vol. 420 No. 7

Written Answers. - Louth Road Improvements.

Ivan Yates

Question:

77 Mr. Yates and Mr. McGahon asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the enormous problems that will be caused if the national road improvements currently proposed between Dunleer and Dundalk in County Louth proceed without providing some form of bridge to maintain the existing road open at Braganstown, Castlebellingham; if he will outline the cost in this regard; if, in view of the fact that the creation of such a cul-de-sac will impose major difficulties to the local residents, he will ensure that the plans are modified accordingly; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Smith)

It is a matter, in the first instance, for Louth County Council to determine the layout and features of the proposed motorway link from the Dunleer by-pass to south of Dundalk. The scheme adopted by the local authority will, in due course, be the subject of an environmental impact statement and a motorway scheme which will have to be submitted to me for determination.

In view of my quasi-judicial role in these matters, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the detail of the scheme which is currently being developed by the local authority.