NRA row with farmers set to continue

The National Roads Authority says the on-going row with farmers over the level of compensation for compulsory purchase of land is costing half a million pounds a week.

The figure could rise if the row continues. For the last six weeks, farmers have refused to co-operate with the NRA and it's believed that an early resolution is not expected.

The Irish Farmer's Association is accusing the NRA of inflammatory tactics and says it's determined to continue campaigning for significant improvements in the price for land purchased under compulsory order.

Between 30 and 40 road schemes are affected by the stand-off and the deadline to complete all new roads under the national development plan by 2006 is now in jeopardy.