Erin McGreehan (Louth, Fianna Fail)

It would be remiss of me not to say how positive this is for the entire north-east region, as Deputy Smith has said. Dundalk is my town and DKIT is hugely important to me. It will be transformative for the north east and right across the area. Economically, socially and educationally, this is going to be absolutely fantastic. There are so many opportunities. I listened to young people and students speaking about this on RTÉ News. They are really excited. The staff are looking forward to this. It really is a testament to the governing body, to the staff and the students in DKIT who have allowed this to happen. I am grateful to Queen's University for matching up with DKIT. I am looking forward to the opportunities and to see what will happen. I thank the Minister and all his officials for the work they have done. They have done the State and the north east some great service. I look forward to working with the Minister on whatever legislation and help the Minister needs this committee to do. We will be here, ready and willing to do it.