Vol. 499 No. 1
772 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if there is provision in the 1999 Estimates for the completion of the Tralee ship canal; and if she will outline a schedule for the completion of the remaining works, including the provision of the new bridge at Hare Street, Blennerville. [1432/99]
The Tralee ship canal restoration project is being carried out by the Office of Public Works on my behalf. A provision of £650,000 has been made in 1999 for the project. Excavation and removal of spoil from the basin area were completed recently and the extent of repairs necessary to the basin walls is being assessed at present to enable tenders to be invited for that work. Other works scheduled this year include the installation of a new lifting bridge at Blennerville and the relocation of services under the canal. Restoration work to the lock-gates, some minor dredging and the installation of navigation aids will also be necessary and it is expected to complete these additional works in the first half of 2000.
