78 Mr. Harte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consult the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland with a view to having the security ramps at military checkpoints along the northern side of the Border removed in view of the fact that these ramps are causing inconvenience and annoyance to motor traffic and no longer serve any purpose. [7962/95]

Since last September, I have repeatedly urged the British authorities to move as rapidly as possible toward normal traffic conditions at all Border crossings in line with the changed situation on the ground. We have made clear our view that this should include the dismantlement of military checkpoints and installations wherever possible. I availed of the opportunity of last week's meeting of the Anglo-Irish Conference to encourage further moves in this direction, including the early removal of traffic ramps at Border crossings.

As the Deputy is aware, considerable progress has been made in facilitating cross-Border traffic flows in recent months, particularly through the reopening of previously closed roads. I will be keeping developments in this area under review and pressing for further progress in the period ahead.