Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Adams knows that the reason Narrow Water Bridge did not proceed is not because the Government did not put up the funds but because of the scale of the difference between the tender and moneys provided under the Special EU Programmes Body, SEUPB and Newry, Mourne and Louth Councils. As previously stated, I support this proposal and would like to keep it alive. The issue will be the subject of discussion at the June meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council. I understand that the SEUPB programme is being redrafted and that it is expected the Narrow Water Bridge proposal will be resubmitted. I cannot confirm to the Deputy whether the same proposal will be resubmitted. Suffice it to say that I would like to see this happen and will support it. Obviously, the moneys previously available under the SEUPB were diverted to the rail line and a number of other issues.

On the symphysiotomy report, Judge Murphy commenced her work in December last, which she estimated would take approximately eight weeks to complete and following which she would provide the Minister with a report and recommendations on the next step. The Minister has received that report but has yet to bring it before Government. Following this, the Government will make its decision on the next steps to be taken. This is an issue that has been around for a long time and needs to be dealt with quickly. Obviously, the survivors have had a very difficult time. I will come back to the Deputy on publication of the Walsh report.

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