Rory O'Hanlon
Ceist:37 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when it is proposed to remove the remaining ramps on the cross-Border roads on the northern side of the Border. [14744/95]
Written Answers. - Cross-Border Roads.
Since the cease-fires were announced, the Government has repeatedly urged the British authorities to restore normal traffic conditions at all Border crossings as quickly as possible in line with the new security situation. As the Deputy is aware, a good deal of progress had been made in this regard, especially in the matter of re-opening of roads. Most of the non-bridge crossings have now been re-opened. A number of the ramps the Deputy refers to have been, or are in the process of being removed.
I am, however, conscious of the fact that vehicle checkpoints, together with ramps and other obstacles, remainin situ at many crossings and that these are a cause of concern and inconvenience among local communities along the Border. This issue has already been discussed with the British Government in the framework of the Anglo-Irish Agreement and I will continue to press for the full normalisation of these crossings, including the removal of the remaining ramps.