Vol. 445 No. 9
79 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when the remainder of the border roads will be reopened, especially the Monaghan town to Clogher road which is the major link between north Monaghan and its hinterland. [1440/94]
104 Mr. Boylan asked the asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Taoiseach has discussed with the British Prime Minister the mechanics of rebuilding bridges designated to be reopened along the border; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [
I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 104 together.
In view of the historic development of recent weeks I believe that there is now a major opportunity to resolve the problem of closed cross-Border roads. The Government has therefore welcomed the decisions taken to date to rescind closure orders on 16 Border crossings, and the announcement that a review of all road closures is under way. With regard to the problems facing local communities in the areas referred to by the Deputies, and along the Border generally, it has been made clear to the British authorities that this issue must continue to receive priority attention. I have therefore emphasised to the Secretary of State the importance of ensuring that the review is concluded as rapidly as possible and that it leads to a programme of re-openings in all of the affected areas.
With regard to the rebuilding of bridges and other works arising out of the re-openings, discussions are already under way between officials from both sides on different aspects of the many technical and practical matters which need attention as re-openings take place. I can assure the Deputies that I will be keeping progress on this, as on all matters relating to the road closures problem, under close review within the framework of the Anglo-Irish Conference.
