Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 273: To ask the Minister for Transport when he expects the port tunnel to be fully drained, sealed and ready for operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3538/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority and the local authorities concerned. I understand from Dublin City Council that leaks are part and parcel of the issues that arise on large engineering projects such as the tunnel. If remedial measures are called for at any stage the contractor is required to implement them at its own expense. Contrary to the impression that may have been created, the tunnels are safe and stable. I have been informed by the NRA that the tunnel is expected to be open to traffic by summer 2006 following the testing and commissioning of the tunnel's operational and safety features.