Sir, - Your correspondent Michael Gorman (November 28th) has questioned my support for the inclusion of the Eastern Bypass in the city's draft development plan.
It is clear that Mr Gorman has totally misunderstood the scheme that I and my colleagues have co-proposed, particularly in relation to its impact on Dublin Bay and the Sandymount area. Our proposal is for a bored tunnel under Sandymount and Merrion strands. A bored tunnel is constructed completely underground with openings only at the entrances to the tunnel. Consequently, neither the construction nor the operation of the bypass will in any way affect or diminish the outstanding natural amenity of this area.
On the contrary, the scheme will protect and enhance both the natural environment and also residential amenities by reducing the current excessive volumes of traffic in the south-eastern sector of the city. Mr Gorman can rest assured that the proposed scheme will safeguard for future generations the wonderful natural assets of Sandymount and Merrion strands.
Finally, Mr Gorman is incorrect in suggesting that I opposed the proposal for an Eastern Bypass six years ago. While I have consistently supported this project, some of my colleagues have only recently seen the light. - Yours, etc., Senator Joe Doyle,
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Mansion House, Dublin 2.