SDLP In Dáil Over Narrow Bridge Delay

The SDLP has met with Irish Environment Minister Phil Hogan to discuss the future of the Narrow Water Bridge project.

Despite Northern Ireland regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy's decision to approve the project, which would see a cross border bridge linking counties Down and Louth, Louth County Council said a funding shortfall meant it could not proceed.

South Down SDLP MP Margaret Ritchie and South Down MLA Seán Rogers along with Louth Fine Gael TD Peter Fitzpatrick today.

Speaking after the meeting in the Dáil, Margaret Ritchie MP said: "The news this week that the Narrow Water Bridge is to be put on hold is a huge blow for the local community in Warrenpoint and in the Cooley Peninsula who have worked so long and hard for the project.

"I was determined to meet the Irish Government to discuss how the project could be moved on and to reemphasise the real benefits to the community and the local economy that the Narrow Water Bridge would have.

"We had a very constructive meeting with Minister Hogan and I am confident that the Irish Government is also committed to trying to find a solution that will advance the project."

Cllr Declan Breathnach of Louth Council said of Danny Kennedy's decision: "The fact that Mr Kennedy is proceeding in this way without the need for a time-consuming and expensive public inquiry is also to be welcomed.

"Having navigated the complex approval process in both the Republic and Northern Ireland and won the support of key stakeholders who recognise its huge social and economic potential, it is vital that we now spare no effort to keep this project alive and use all of our creativity and energy to find a solution to the funding issue."

(IT/MH)