Sean Barrett (Independent)

The data on how safe Dublin city now is confirm that. There is also the experience of a smaller HGV ban in Maynooth and I am sure Deputies representing the Kildare North constituency will be able to help the Minister in that regard. There is capacity to the east of Slane on the M1, which is designed to motorway standard, to take heavy goods vehicles and there is a link to Ardee, north of Slane. The N3 is also designed to a standard to take heavy goods vehicles north of Kells. The solution is to preserve the Georgian village, which includes a unique set of four magnificent houses, and Newgrange. Slane, like many other towns such as Naas and Abbeyleix, would improve greatly if it were bypassed by heavy goods vehicles, which is the solution. An Bord Pleanála did us all a favour by refusing the construction of an extra, expensive bridge across the Boyne when there is capacity on two existing motorways to which trucks could be diverted. That requires the Minister to discuss with the National Roads Authority the level of tolls and to discuss with Meath County Council other diversionary measures. A low-cost solution that would benefit the environment, economy and heritage of Slane is available.