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MLA Justin McNulty has asked Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd whether he will raise the support for the facilitation of a Southern Relief Road lifting bridge and the regeneration of Newry Canal at the next North South Ministerial Council Transport meeting.
In his reply Minister O'Dowd said that he would be providing an update at the next North South Transport meeting where he would be advising of his decision to push ahead with a fixed bridge over Newry Ship Canal. Regarding the canal regeneration he said he was unable to raise that as it was owned by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
The Minister said "The provision of the Newry Southern Relief Road is a priority scheme for my Department and I will provide an update on the project at the next North South Ministerial Council Transport meeting.
"I would also intend to advise the North South Ministerial Council Transport meeting of my decision of April 2024 to move forward with a fixed bridge as this demonstrates better value for money after careful consideration of all relevant information.
"I am unable to raise the regeneration of the Newry Canal as the canal is in the ownership of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, and its regeneration is a matter for their consideration."
The proposed fixed bridge has met with a lot of resistance from the Newry community as it will bring to an end access for tall ships and yachts to Newry City.
