SAMMY Wilson has consistently refused to be interviewed about the Narrow Water Bridge project. Several attempts have been made by The Irish News to speak with the DUP finance minister regarding the cross-border scheme. But time and time again officials for Mr Wilson, pictured, return with the same line - "the minister is not available for interview". In a statement about the project, a finance department spokesman would only say: "As previously advised the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) officials are undertaking a critical review of the project and this process remains ongoing. "No final recommendation has been reached. Officials understand the time-scales involved for the potential delivery of the project and are endeavouring to provide a decision." In a further attempt to glean some information on what Mr Wilson's opinions on the project are, The Irish News submitted a number of questions to the minister. But once again, our request was turned down. These are the questions the minister has refused to answer: ? Do you accept the economic principle of the construction multiplier that every £1 spent on this project means £3 being put back into the economy? ? Would it not be foolish to turn down the offer of around £20 million from the EU and Irish government for a NI investment of just £2.8m? ? Why have you taken so long to make your decision on the Narrow Water Bridge project funding? ? How do you answer the accusations that you have difficulties with this project because it is being seen as being nationalist driven? ? Can you agree that the initiative will have a hugely beneficial long-term effect on the tourist industry in south Down and beyond? ? In response to the questions a DFP spokeswoman said: "The minister has advised that we have nothing further to add than the response provided earlier this week." When asked to explain why Mr Wilson would not respond to the questions, she added: "The minister has nothing further to add until a final decision has been made."
