asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider opening a frontier post on the Cavan/ Fermanagh border between Swanlinbar and Clones, in view of the fact that there is a distance of thirty miles between these two posts.

13.

asked the Minister for Finance whether he will take steps, or make representations to the British authorities, to have roads leading from County Cavan to County Fermanagh declared approved roads; and, if so, what roads.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 13 together. As I said in answer to a similar question about cross-Border customs facilities on 11th February last, I have the general question of the approval of additional roads under consideration. I will bear in mind the claim for approval of roads on the Cavan-Fermanagh border. I hope to complete the examination of this matter very shortly.

Is the Minister aware that this question of the examination of roads crossing the Border has now been going on for nearly 12 months ?

That is true, but, as the Deputy will realise, it is not a matter for consideration by us alone. It also has to be considered by the British side and they have entered on a consideration of the matter in the past two weeks.

Is the Minister aware that a frontier post would considerably relieve the inconvenience on both sides of the Border where residents are obliged to leave their cars and travel on foot to their destination ?

I assume that is the case.

Would the Minister be prepared to meet a deputation who would know all the relevant facts in this connection ?

I do not think it would serve any good purpose at the moment.