Vol. 460 No. 6
138 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht when works will begin on the Dublin Bridge, Mullingar, County Westmeath, which is situated on the Royal Canal; if he will ensure that when such works commence that there will be minimum disruption to pedestrians, motorists and businesses in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1826/96]
Design of a new road bridge to replace the existing one which obstructs the passage of boats along the Royal Canal is being undertaken at present. Tenders for the new bridge will be invited in the autumn and it is anticipated that construction works will commence late this year or early next year. Particular care is being taken in designing the proposed works to minimise disruption of pedestrians, traffic and local businesses during construction.
