Brendan Howlin
Question:37 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when the Dublin Port access tunnel will begin construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16293/97]
Written Answers. - Dublin Port Access Tunnel.
The proposed Dublin Port access route is intended as a national primary road: its design and construction are accordingly the responsibility of Dublin Corporation, as road authority for the area, acting under the general supervision of the National Roads Authority which has overall responsibility for the planning, design, construction and financing of national roads.
My responsibilities as Minister for the Environment and Local Government relate to the determination of the environmental impact aspect and the motorway scheme relevant to the proposal, following the holding of a public inquiry. I intend that these matters will be addressed as soon as possible following the completion of necessary procedures by Dublin Corporation.
The corporation has also raised with my Department the adequacy of the statutory powers available to construct the proposed tunnel. This matter is being addressed and will be resolved before the statutory procedures are concluded.