asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware that the large population of Lettermore, Gorumna and Lettermullen, County Galway, has been without a bus service for a long time because of the unsafe condition of the road bridges on the approaches to the district; and whether he can state when it is likely that the necessary repairs will be effected, so that the services may be resumed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bridge Repairs in Co. Galway.
The Department was informed in October, 1941, that it had been disclosed from inspection that bridges at Annaghvann, Traghta and Carrigluggaun had become unsafe and that it was necessary to restrict both the weight and speed of traffic passing over these bridges. It was stated at the time that immediate reconstruction was not feasible owing to shortages of material. Since then some work has been done between Annaghvann and Traghta by way of the construction of a causeway which eliminates Annaghvann Bridge. It is understood that the completion of the causeway can be put in hands at an early date subject to financial arrangements affecting grants. A proposal from Galway County Council in this matter is awaited.
Special technical difficulties arose in connection with the foundations and design of Carrigluggann Bridge and considerable research work had to be carried out in regard to tidal and ground conditions. It is understood that the investigations in this respect are now nearing completion. The question of the financing of the work will receive consideration as soon as a proposal is received from the Galway County Council.