Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would describe Deputy Cullinane's characterisation differently. No options have been taken off the table. Let me state that clearly. If, however, we were to pursue a CPO option, there would be significant risks. First, you may not get the CPO. Second, you are adding significant time to the project regardless. Third, this is meant to be a partnership. As such, it needs to be entered into in good faith. Starting off what could be a 50- or 100-year partnership in the courts would not bode well. However, no option has been taken off the table. Similarly, choosing a different site, moving to one of the other locations that we could have has not been taken off the table. Deputy Cullinane referenced one and there are others. In consideration of that, we would all have to accept that we would be adding many years to the project, delaying essential care for many years and adding significant cost.