Is the Taoiseach aware of the press release issued by Louth County Council within recent hours to the effect that the plans for the Narrow Water bridge between Omeath and Warrenpoint have been put on hold because the tenders submitted are way out of kilter with the financial provision for the project? There is a real danger that this extremely worthwhile project may not proceed at this time. Some reassurance from the Taoiseach would be very welcome.

Perhaps not on the Order of Business.

This project has been under consideration for quite some time, with moneys provided from Europe, Louth County Council, the British Government and the Northern Ireland Executive. I am aware that tenders have come in. This matter must be reflected upon because of the conditions set out. I do not believe the local authority where the Deputy resides would be in a position to meet the shortfall that applies in this case, and I am not sure what can be done about it now, given the scale of the bridge and the size of the preparatory entrances on either side. We strongly support this facility; we have had a lot of engagement on it and would like to see it happen. Clearly, this is a setback in terms of the scale of the tenders that have come in, which must be examined with regard to the scale and design of the bridge. I am sure the county council will talk to the consultants about that.