Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I think that is the most constructive way to ensure the Minister has a time that is appropriate for her to come to the meeting. To be fair to the Minister, as the Chairman has stated, she is attending a Cabinet meeting this morning and is, therefore, unable to be here. The short notice given to the Minister of State, Deputy Kyne, meant that it is unfortunate that neither of them are able to attend this morning. However, there are issues that we need a response on in respect of Comhar na nOileán and the West Cork Development Partnership. We also need to discuss in depth the 2017 budget for the Irish language. The most constructive way to deal with this is to ask the Minister to identify a date and a time that is appropriate for her to come and address the committee. The Minister and the Ministers of State, Deputy Ring and Deputy Kyne, have attended the committee on previous occasions. I cannot see why they would not wish to attend again to discuss in depth the important issues relating to Leader contracts and the 2017 budget.