asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he has received representations from the Kildare County Council concerning the desirability of availing of the opportunity arising through the Barrow drainage operations of erecting a new bridge in place of the Pass Bridge, Monasterevan; if so, whether he is prepared to assist the County Council in the matter.

I have received representations from the County Council of the nature mentioned by the Deputy and am in communication with the Office of Public Works on the subject.

Is the Minister aware that the Board of Works has fixed a time limit, which expires on June 15th, for decision, and will he bear that fact in mind, as the matter is obviously one of importance and urgency?

I have a note here that the Minister for Local Government agrees that the matter is urgent and will do what he can to expedite it.