Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, Alan Farrell raised his opposition to construction vehicles using the bridge into, and out of, Donabate for the construction of the National Forensic Mental Hospital on the grounds of St. Ita’s Hospital in Portrane with the Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar in Dáil Éireann.
“I am strongly opposed to construction vehicles using the bridge into, and out of Donabate village. Should these vehicles be allowed to use this route, they will pass nearby schools, residential areas, and sports centres and clubs. I believe that this proposal may inadvertently put the safety of local residents and children at risk.”
Noting the irony that the route the HSE construction project is proposed to take could, through increasing risk to residents, actually end up with somebody in the care of the HSE as a result of the construction process itself, Deputy Farrell also said “I sincerely hope that An Bord Pleanála take into consideration the important health and safety issues surrounding the route proposed by the HSE.
In response to Deputy Farrell, Minister Varadkar stated “I can very much understand the concerns about HGVs in the village and the impact on the bridge during what is a very substantial construction period. Obviously I can’t interfere with the planning process now that it is before An Bord Pleanála but I have discussed the matter with the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council and I certainly will discuss it further with the HSE once the decision is made by An Bord Pleanála so the impact on residents in Donabate can be minimised and any safety concerns allayed.”
Deputy Farrell said “I have urged Minister Varadkar to impress upon the HSE the concerns of local residents, both in terms of safety and the potential damage to road infrastructure in the area. I am pleased that Minister Varadkar has taken these concerns on board, especially given that the HSE did not allow these concerns to inform their plans during the consultation process.”
Video of Alan Farrell TD questioning Minister Varadkar on the proposed route for construction vehicles for the National Forensic Mental Hospital.