asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the present position regarding the rebuilding of Griffith (North Gate) Bridge, Cork City.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rebuilding of Cork Bridge.
24.
Detailed drawings in connection with the construction of a new bridge to replace the bridge referred to by the Deputy were officially submitted to my Department on 17th January, 1959. Since that date there have been discussions and correspondence between the Consulting Engineer and my engineering advisers on the details of the design submitted. The object of these discussions and correspondence is to expedite the completion of the design with due regard to various points raised by my advisers.
It has been my intention that the Cork Corporation should be kept advised on the progress being made with the design and other details of the project. The Consulting Engineer was requested to do this and the City Manager has been informed accordingly.
In view of the grave inconvenience and the considerable expense incurred by the citizens of Cork since this bridge was closed to traffic nearly two years ago, I wonder could the Minister give more specific information as to the cause of the delay, and any reason or suggestion as to how it is likely to be expedited. It is causing a tremendous amount of anxiety to the people of the City of Cork.
The only thing I can say to the Deputy at this stage is that he might possibly make inquiries nearer to himself. In other words, in his own local authority he might find some reasons why this delay has occurred.
We have done that, without success, I am afraid.
If the Deputy wishes to put down a further question I shall be glad to answer it.
The Lord Mayor has not told us what he knows.