Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Scott-Lennon for the presentation. Her portfolio is very impressive. I come from Finglas but I have spent quite a bit of time in the Dún Laoghaire area. In the 1970s, I did sub-aqua diving courses in Killiney. I am familiar with the area, which is fantastic and has a lot to offer. Some 19 people are employed by the Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company, which is down from 42. I know the company has plans to expand and bring in more cruise liners, but it is not impacting on the numbers employed there. Can Ms Scott-Lennon elaborate on how such expansion would create more jobs in the harbour apart from what is created locally with businesses?

The cruisers are one thing but there are various sports projects around the world, including yacht races. Are there plans to try to attract more of those? There is a big potential in that respect. We have seen famine ships and yachting regattas visiting Wexford, Waterford and other ports. Are there plans to attract more such events which would bring in many more visitors?

Ms Scott-Lennon said she was trying to create approximately 1,400 jobs in the area. Can she elaborate on where these jobs will arise? I do not always praise the Government, but there is no doubt that the 9% VAT rate to help the tourist industry, including hotels, has been a major incentive and has given value for money. While that VAT rate is up for debate, it is to be hoped we will see sense and retain it because it is very important.

There are some museums in the Dún Laoghaire area, but are there any plans to expand their number? The swimming pool idea is fabulous. I have not seen the master plan but it seems like a very good idea to attract local people as well as tourists to the harbour area. That will also generate more footfall and business generally. I wish Ms Scott-Lennon the best of luck.