Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 424: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs when construction will commence on the Narrow Water Bridge at Omeath, County Louth as announced in the national development plan; the steps that need to be taken for construction to commence; the length of time it will take to construct; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4749/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will know, the issue of a bridge at Narrow Water has been mooted for many decades. I am delighted to inform the Deputy that in the National Development Plan for the period 2007 to 2013, the Government proposed, for the first time, significant investment in projects and initiatives for mutual benefit, North and South. The Government wishes to agree and implement these with the British Government and a restored Northern Ireland Executive at an early date.

One of the key priorities is improved access along the Eastern corridor, including links between Co. Louth and Co Down. The development of Narrow Water Bridge would obviously be an important element of that proposal. I am, and have been for a long time, very supportive of this project which has the potential to benefit significantly both tourism and economic development generally in this border area. Obviously, agreement with our Northern counterparts would be required and I am working to secure early agreement on the package of proposals, including the Narrow Water Bridge, with the British Government and the incoming Northern Ireland Executive.