Paul McGrath
Question:59 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the work which has been carried out along the Royal Canal during 1992; and the work, if any, which is planned for 1993.
Vol. 424 No. 6
59 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the work which has been carried out along the Royal Canal during 1992; and the work, if any, which is planned for 1993.
The ongoing Royal Canal restoration programme, which is being carried out by the Office of Public Works, achieved significant progress in 1992. Work continued on the restoration and reopening of the section of canal between Blanchardstown and the River Liffey. Works consist of dredging the canal to navigation depth, removal of spoil, restoration of lock chambers, construction of replacement lock gates, fitting of lock gates and the provision and improvement of pedestrian towpaths. In 1992, the Office of Public Works restoration works have progressed to the 2nd lock at Binn's Bridge in Dublin. At present, dredging works are being carried out on the first level between Newcomen Bridge and Binn's Bridge and with the completion of these works, the installation of new lock gates at the 2nd lock, and the replacement of the railway culvert at Newcomen Bridge with a new lifting bridge in 1993, the Royal Canal will be navigable from Dublin to Mullingar.