asked the Minister for Local Government when he expects to make an order confirming the order of Westmeath County Council closing a disused portion of the Athlone-Longford road at Cloghanboy, Athlone.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Athlone-Longford Road.
65.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply given on 30th July, 1970, to his earlier question on the subject. A fresh order, pursuant to section 76 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, providing for extinguishment of the public right of way over the shorter length of road referred to in that reply, was received in my Department from the Westmeath County Council on 2nd December last. The section provides that I shall not approve of such an order until I have caused a public local inquiry to be held and have considered any objections to the order not withdrawn and the report of the person who held the inquiry. Arrangements are being made to have the necessary inquiry held as soon as possible.
Would the Minister be good enough to expedite the inquiry? I have no doubt it will only be a formality.
The inquiry will be held soon.