Mr. Sunil Sharpe:

I thank the Senator for his questions. It is great to hear that there are even a few nightclubs left in Navan. It is a testament to the local area, which has been really looking after its night-time economy and nightlife. I am with the Senator on all his points. We have had some input into the Dublin City Council development plan. We have given our feedback and we are hopeful about what it might soon publish, although it will still take some time.

On planning, I will not say let us rip up the rule book but let us see more real time decision-making, particularly when it comes to the use of outdoor space. Many businesses can take control of the space near them because we will move outdoors more. The preservation of space is another matter for development plans, which is another conversation again. We need to preserve our spaces so they do not get knocked down and become something else, particularly our entertainment spaces. However, we also need to empower existing businesses now so that they can return to the industry without fear of being put under extra difficulties they should not be put under at this point.