Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We have to get the full information before we make any decision because the issue is so important. From previous meetings the Secretary General and members of staff and officials have had with the United Kingdom, from as early as January, we have certainly had a very detailed discussion about the land bridge issue and got a great deal of comfort from the United Kingdom that it has no wish to obstruct that very important means of transport in moving freight around. We realise how important the issue is, but I assure members that the research will be carried out and a formal report will be available in very good time in order that the negotiations will be fully informed of the consequences of any obstruction or changes in the use of the landbridge. That is vital, but it requires an enormous amount of research because of the level of traffic from here to Holyhead and on to Dover and Calais and back from across the Continent. It is a very important vein. It would not be responsible to address the issue without also looking at the alternatives. That is what is being done and it will be done extremely thoroughly. I am sure the Deputy will be the first to receive a copy of the report when it is available.