Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy O'Brien for coming to the committee to make a contribution, most of which did not involve questions but was rather an expression of his views. That is fair enough. His views are very useful. Bearing in mind the constituency he represents it is an honourable position for him to take, and that is what he should do. I do not share the views but that is neither here nor there. As he is aware, however, I have met many delegations of residents, taken their views into account and relayed them to the DAA and to other appropriate people and institutions. I will continue to do that if he believes that is useful because this is about a balanced determination which has to take into account the overall national interest and the interests of his constituents. That is what will be done and, contrary to what the Deputy said, it will be independent. I have no doubt about that. I know the Deputy has a high regard for Fingal County Council, as I do. The issue of staff at Fingal County Council, which he raised, was covered several times when the Deputy was not present.