Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the delegates for attending. I have been very impressed by the professionalism, personal commitment, clarity and openness of all of them. There was no question they did not answer and there was no point to which they did not listen. We have learned a lot on this side of the table.

I have a couple questions which I hope will be helpful. One of the key points about the OCI concerns an increase in the membership of the board, perhaps by adding members from the business world or others who could add to the expertise of the excellent existing members. This is an area that might usefully be examined.

Mr. Mulvey has rightly stated there is no kit sponsor right now. We have to make sure the organisation will get everything it needs for the games as soon as possible, notwithstanding the barriers involving the Department which may still have legitimate issues which I acknowledge. Perhaps the delegates might revert to us within a reasonable period - say, four or five weeks - to determine whether there is anything we can do to help. The Olympics logo is one of gold in terms of achievement and corporate ownership or sponsorship. We need to ensure barriers to corporate sponsorship arising from the old regime are no longer in place. That is the key point. We must be in a position to affirm absolutely the integrity, work, commitment and change demonstrating that the old order is gone and has been replaced by a new one. I believe circumstances will be much better.