The go-ahead has been given for the biggest bridge yet to be constructed in Co Donegal.
The €17 million bridge will connect the Rosguil and Fanad peninsulas - with the eastern side of the bridge located on the estate of the family of Lord Leitrim.
He is remembered as one of Ireland's most notorious landlords, who was assassinated by locals in 1878.
The bridge will be 350m in length with six spans. Over €5 million will be spent in 2006, €8 million in 2007 and the final €4 million in 2008.
It is due to open in June 2008. Plans for the bridge were first mooted in 1986.
Local TD Neil Blaney said: "The bridge will have a major impact on the local economies of both peninsulas, and especially for tourism."
A trip between the two points in each peninsula currently involves a journey of 50km.
Donegal's Development Plan includes the objective of forming an interlinked maritime chain across the north of the county. The bridge represents the final link in the maritime chain.