asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether any prior consultation took place with Irish authorities in respect of the recent blowing up of a bridge in the Castlefin area of County Donegal by the British military; if so, with whom, and whether he will raise the question of restoring the bridge with the British authorities, in view of the resulting inconvenience to local people on both sides of the Border.
Written Answers. - Castlefin (County Donegal) Bridge Destruction.
382.
Minister for Foreign Affairs (Professor Dooge)
The Irish authorities were not consulted in advance about the destruction of this bridge. The action was undertaken by the British authorities on the basis of their assessment of security considerations and the bridge can only be rebuilt with their agreement.
I am fully aware of the difficulties caused to local residents in border areas as a result of road closures. While the decision whether or not to reopen this border crossing is ultimately a matter for the British authorities I will keep the situation under review and will impress upon them the need to have the crossing reopened as soon as possible.