andJack Lynch asked the Minister for Local Government when he expects to be in a position to issue a decision in regard to the application of the Cork Corporation for a bridge order for the construction of a new bridge to replace Parnell Bridge.

I would refer the Deputies to the terms of my reply to their previous question regarding this application. I am not yet in a position to give a decision in the matter.

Will we get a decision before the Youghal bridge is finished?

Ask Deputy Corry, your neighbour. He will tell you.

Will you now insist that they will subscribe to the Youghal bridge?

Is the Minister aware that it is nearly two years since this inquiry was held? Are we going to be kept waiting until Youghal bridge is finished?

I understand the existing bridge is in a fair state of repair and it is not a matter of extreme urgency, in view of the other important road and bridge works requiring to be done throughout the country.

So the Minister believes this new bridge is not necessary at all?

I did not say any such thing.

The Minister said something very near it. He also said it was not an important bridge.

I said no such thing.