David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. It is optimistic. He might let me know when he expects shovels in the ground, as that is what people want to know. There are also proposals with respect to interim measures. At least two bridges in the Midleton area - Water-rock Bridge and Moore's Bridge, although there are others as well - are severely damaged and could collapse into rivers, causing further problems. There seems to be uncertainty as to who is responsible and can actually pay for their repair because they are on private property and the landowners cannot afford it. There is huge disruption if they are taken out. I have spoken to the Minister of State about this privately, but I ask him to direct his officials to ensure these decisions can be made quickly and without further hesitation and there is clarity with respect to funding. The local authority wants that straightaway. There are real questions that the people of Midleton and east Cork, who are worried about this happening again, want answered. Are there interim measures that can be put in place? When does the Minister of State expect shovels in the ground?

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