Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 145: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made towards the re-opening of the Ulster Canal from Clones, County Monaghan to Lough Erne; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25310/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised that Waterways Ireland has recently awarded contracts for a survey and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on this section of the Canal. The work on the EIA will run for 12 months. On completion of the survey and as the EIA is progressed, the options for the route of the restored section of canal will be reviewed.

When a preferred option is identified, I am advised that it will be developed and submitted for planning approval. Following receipt of planning permission, the land acquisition process will be finalised. Subject to the foregoing processes and available resources, it is anticipated that the design and construct contract could be let with a view to construction commencing in 2011.