Vol. 474 No. 7
26 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications whether any provision will be made for the payment of compensation to traders and businesses in respect of economic or trading losses arising out of the construction operation of the proposed Dublin Light Rail System; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3862/97]
The light rail legislation enacted by the Oireachtas does not make provision for the payment of compensation to traders and businesses in respect of economic or trading losses incurred during the construction and operation of the proposed light rail network. Indeed, there is no legal precedent for payment of such compensation in respect of similar public infrastructure projects. However, CIE is acutely aware of the need to minimise disruption to commercial activities during construction of the light rail network and is drawing up detailed plans for this purpose in close consultation with business and commercial interests.
