Ms Joan Martin:

As has been said, our first priority is preparing and organising the public consultation events. This will involve looking at the viable junction alternatives and arrangements for pedestrians and cyclists. We hope that these events will be open to the public towards the end of this year or very early next year. Time will be allowed for all interested parties to make submissions. The most appropriate technical option will then be progressed to a Part 8 planning process with Louth County Council. If planning approval is secured and additional land is required, a CPO will then be submitted to An Bord Pleanála. I should clarify that land can be acquired by agreement with or without a CPO but if land is not acquired by agreement under a CPO, an oral hearing must be held by An Bord Pleanála to make a decision.