Vol. 448 No. 6
59 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason for the delay in providing a new bridge at Aghalane, Belturbet, County Cavan, in view of the peace process and the importance of the national primary route N3 to the economy of the area; if a temporary bridge will be put in place; when the building of the permanent bridge will commence; and the expected date of completion. [2712/95]
As previously stated I have repeatedly drawn the attention of the relevant authorities to the desirability of ensuring that all closed roads are reopened as soon as possible. I am pleased to note that considerable progress has been made in this regard, and that a number of crossings have already been reopened. I understand that in other cases, including the bridge at Belturbet, the necessary planning and design work is well under way.
As regards the precise time-scale for the work at Belturbet, and other details relevant to the conduct of the project, the Deputy will appreciate that these are matters for which responsibility rests with the two Departments of the Environment and, where appropriate, with the National Roads Authority. The Deputy can be assured however that I will continue to monitor progress generally in this regard and to urge that all closed crossings be re-opened in the shortest possible time.
