Roche clears way for M3's construction
Wednesday, 11 May 2005
The Minister for the Environment, Dick Roche, has cleared the way for the construction of the M3 motorway by issuing directions to Meath County Council on how archaeological work is to be conducted.
Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Mr Roche said that stringent conditions would apply.
Commenting on a controversial interchange 1km north of the Hill of Tara, the minister said the National Roads Authority was putting in an alternative lighting scheme and extensive landscaping.
He added that in order to protect the landscape around Tara he told Meath County Council to ensure that the new development plan protected the rural character and archaeological heritage of the area.
Given concerns that massive developments would take place along the new motorway, the minister said he would consider using his powers to direct the council to amend its plan if it was not up to standard.
The controversial project was approved by An Bord Pleanála two years ago, but many archaeologists and historians have argued that part of Ireland's most important heritage site will be destroyed.
The Director of the National Museum, Dr Pat Wallace, had submitted a report to the Environment Minister in which it is reported he opposed the routing and, in particular, an interchange north of the hill.
- News At One: Minister for the Environment Dick Roche confirms the road development will go ahead in spite of protests
- Morning Ireland: Paul Cunningham, Environment Correspondent, reports ahead of the Environment Minister Dick Roche's decision on how to treat archaeological sites around the proposed route
- Nine News: Paul Cunningham, Environment Correspondent, reports as the Minister for the Environment, Dick Roche, clears the way for the construction of the M3 motorway
- Six One News: Julitta Clancy, Meath Historical Society, & Michael Cassidy, Navan Chamber of Commerce, disagree on the value of the decision
- Six One News: Richard Dowling, North-East Correspondent, reports on mixed reactions on the Hill of Tara today
- Six One News: Paul Cunningham, Environment Correspondent, reports that the minister insists the route is not a matter for him
- One News: Richard Dowling, North-East Correspondent, gauges reaction to the motorway plans from Julitta Clancy of the Meath Archaeological & Historical Society
- One News: Paul Cunningham, Environment Correspondent, outlines Dick Roche's conditions regarding the construction of the M3
