Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have to get out of that bad old habit of over-talking. I tend to do that at the end of every meeting. I get too relaxed and start to say too much. We have a lot of work to do with regard to Magee. The British and Irish Governments have made a commitment in respect of Magee. I and my officials have had meetings regarding Magee. We have met with people in Magee and Ulster University and I have met with the British ambassador. I have had a lot of engagement with regard to how we will fulfill this commitment, which is a solemn commitment from both governments. I am being very honest. We do not yet have a clear plan from the institution as to what we could appropriately fund. I am saying this in the spirit of friendship and to be constructive. We have a lot of work to do there and I would very much welcome a chance to tease out some of that.

Speaking on behalf of the Irish Government, my message to Magee and the University of Ulster would be to come forward with proposals that both Governments can consider funding to fulfil our commitment. I am very happy to discuss that at the other relevant committee.