A RECENT correspondent asked in a national newspaper why France seems to have some of its road improvements subsidised by the EU whereas we do not. Why indeed? I, too, was curious about this having travelled in both France and Republic of Ireland this yea

A RECENT correspondent asked in a national newspaper why France seems to have some of its road improvements subsidised by the EU whereas we do not. Why indeed?

I, too, was curious about this having travelled in both France and Republic of Ireland this year, where I saw similar signs.

Leaving aside the question relating to France, I would not challenge the need for Ireland to have its road improvements subsidised. My concern is that the Republic has many similarities with our region in terms of infrastructure, acreage and population, whereas, unlike them, we, are a (relatively) poor region of an affluent country.

I am at a loss to understand why we are unable to attract funding to install safety fencing alongside the Sixteen Foot and Forty Foot drains.

The argument that there is insufficient space afforded by the canal bank to install safety fencing is totally refuted by the fact that canals in Calais with roads alongside have exactly that.

Perhaps Malcolm Moss, MP, could turn his attention to the issue, the resolution of which would be a lasting monument to his fine Parliamentary career.

GRAHAM McDONALD

High Street

Manea