The role of the EU in the M3 controversy
In recent days, there has been a lot of press coverage in Ireland about the role of the European Commission in the context of the motorway.
Some people who oppose this development have totally over-stated and misrepresented the role of the European Commission in this matter.
As an MEP representing the people of Co Meath, I want to set the record straight as to the exact role of the European Commission concerning the M3.
On June 29, the European Commission sent a letter by reasoned opinion to the Irish Government seeking an explanation as to why it did not carry out a second impact assessment when there was an archaeological discovery at Lismullen on the route of the M3 motorway in March.
The Irish Government has robustly defended its position because we acted only after independent reports from the director of the Irish National Museum were given to the Government.
This report recommended that the find at Lismullen be excavated and be preserved by record. This proposed plan was supported by the chief State archaeologist in Ireland.
The European Commission’s sending of this letter by reasoned opinion to the Irish Government does not mean, as has been reported in some media, that Ireland is going to be fined hundreds of millions of euro by the EU or that the building of this road, which is already under way, has to stop.
A letter by reasoned opinion does not mean that the European Commission is taking legal action against Ireland.
I know that this is a very emotive issue but the role of the European Union in this matter has to be put into perspective.
Liam Aylward MEP
East Constituency
Hugginstown
Co Kilkenny
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
