Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives from the Chambers of Commerce in Warrenpoint and Dundalk. It is good to see so many local representatives at this meeting, including Deputies, Senators and Members of Parliament, which demonstrates the high level of interest in the Narrow Water Bridge. A lot of hard work has been done so far. We are close to the end and it is very important that we seal the deal. A lot of money has already been spent on this project. In that context, I wish to commend Louth County Council on its investment of more than €2 million in this project to date.

The bridge is an appropriate symbol of peace between North and South. There has been a lot of conflict between the North and South for many years but this will help to bridge any gap that remains between the communities on both sides of the Border. In recent years, a tremendous amount of friendship has built up between Border communities. The bridge also has the potential to create many jobs North and South and to enhance the development of tourism in the area.

I thank all of those involved for their work on the project so far. It is good so see so much cross-Border and cross-party co-operation, which demonstrates how, when people put their heads together, much can be achieved. Much of what has been said this morning has been positive in tone. We must remain positive in order to reach the finishing line. As a new Deputy in the House, I am delighted to have had the opportunity to meet so many public representatives from Northern Ireland. I thank the witnesses for their presentations.