asked the Minister for the Environment the up-to-date position regarding the proposed new bridge over the Shannon at Limerick city.

A public local inquiry was held on 2 and 3 October 1979 into the application of Limerick Corporation for a bridge order under the Local Government Act, 1946, for the construction of a new bridge at Mallow Street, Limerick. There will be no undue delay in notifying the road authority of my decision on the application.

At this stage can the Minister indicate a likely starting date for the work?

I am awaiting a report from the inspector concerned. I cannot take any further action until I get it. That should be in the very near future.