437. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the restoration and repair of Ardara Bridge, Cadamstown, Birr, County Offaly will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13776/14]

The Ardara Bridge conservation project, has been, from the outset, technically very challenging due to the extremely fragile nature of the structure. It has also been affected by poor weather, resulting in high water levels in the river below, making conditions for workers hazardous. For operational reasons, there has been the need, at times, to divert resources to other conservation and maintenance projects ongoing in the district at the same time.

The best current estimate for final completion is end 2016.