Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect of the Ulster Canal, I am glad to say that the contracts are signed for the Derrykerrib bridge. This is the stretch that will go from Belturbet to Castle Saunderson. On another part of it, funding was applied through Waterways Ireland and was successful. A total of €5 million was received to develop the blueway on the towpath along the canal from Smithborough to Middleton so that is protecting the route of the canal as well. Another application exists. They are looking at funding to see how we can move to carry out a recreation project along the route of the old canal into Clones. A forum has been set up for all the stakeholders. They were consulting this week with the different stakeholders on both sides of the Border but I must say that I was delighted to get it started. The most important thing is that it has started and will be done on an incremental basis. It is about getting the first bit and working back. I think we should be working from Clones heading back in towards Belturbet.

The Minister of State, Deputy Kyne, will talk about the forests issue.