Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I realise that the post-project review is recent and it is too early to ask about the recommendations. Nevertheless, there is confirmation they are being implemented, which I welcome. I also welcome the setting up of the special unit for 2040. It seems there is ongoing learning in respect of matters but regarding the four properties, the clarification that has been received is unnecessary, given that, as the Chairman noted, the city council owns the properties. My point was that in the post-project review, the council used the four properties to justify a Fáilte Ireland promotion of the area. While I am delighted with that because I am from Galway and love it, the four properties have been empty since 2007. A post-project review to consider value for money for the Pálás cinema includes four properties that have been empty since 2007 but it did not raise one question mark as to why they have been empty since then.

They were bought at an astronomical price and have remained empty in the city which comes last in reaching its targets, although that is a matter for another day. Should I put my hands up at this point and give up?