Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 18 Oct 1995

Vol. 457 No. 2

Written Answers. - Re-opening of Border Crossing.

Brendan Smith

Question:

54 Mr. B. Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress, if any, to date regarding the reopening of Aghalane Bridge, County Cavan; if he will ensure that this project proceeds as quickly as possible in view of its importance from an economic and social viewpoint to a widespread area in counties Cavan and Fermanagh; if he has satisfied himself that the relevant authorities, both north and south of the Border, are progressing the project with the urgency it merits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14871/95]

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Spring)

The Deputy will be aware that 90 per cent of formerly closed Border roads have now been reopened. Work is now concentrating on the remaining bridge crossings, including that at Aghalane, County Cavan, where an extensive road improvement scheme is planned, in addition to the provision of a new bridge. The entire Aghalane project is not expected to be completed until 1997.

As the Deputy is aware, this project has required a considerable amount of land purchase and other planning measures. Nevertheless I understand that planning and design work is now well in hand. There is close and on-going contact between the roads service of the Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland and the National Roads Authority, which is responsible for the road improvement scheme at Aghlane, as this is a national route. The quality of co-operation and commitment shown by both sides augurs well for the future.

The overall plan for Aghalane amounts to a major project with considerable economic and social potential for the area on both sides of the Border. I can assure the Deputy that, together with my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, I will continue to monitor progress and make sure this important scheme is completed as soon as possible.