asked the Minister for External Affairs if he can state whether the spikes on the Omeath-Newry road will be removed soon.

As I stated in my reply to a question from the Deputy on 12th November last, I am fully conscious of the grave hardship caused to the people on both sides of the Border by the spikes on cross-Border roads, including the Omeath-Newry road. I have continued to press for their removal. I know that my representations are under active consideration but I cannot say when they will be successful.

Has the Minister made any recent representations to the Minister of Home Affairs and, if so, can he state the nature of any reply he may have received?

I have made continuous representations.

And the Minister has received no reply?

No satisfactory reply.

Quite recently, the Newry Rural District Council and Chamber of Commerce made renewed representations in regard to this matter to the Minister of Home Affairs. Does the Minister not consider it would be opportune now for him to add his voice to the general representations that are being made?

I have done so.

Recently?

Yes.