Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I want to put a question to the city council officials, perhaps in particular to the manager, Mr. Tierney. Given as this seems to be a clash between commerce and culture, and perhaps commerce and who we are as a people historically, is it possible that if this debate had taken place some years ago, there would be a greater awareness of the significance of the site? Does the manager at this stage see any way we can step back and revisit that situation?

I want to put a question to Mr. James Connolly Heron as well. Seeing as this is an emotional experience - it certainly has been for me - and it must be a wounding experience for all of those on both committees who are relatives of the 1916 patriot leaders, and given the time constraints at this stage, what would be the view of his committee if there were a decision to revisit this in its totality and to bring forward an agreed plan and a date for its launch, perhaps culminating in some aspect of its acknowledgement as a site in 2016? I put that question in the context that we must find the solutions. That is why we are facilitators here today.

I also have a question for Mr. Mac Geehin. He was exceptionally clear on the parameters of the planning permission which has been given and it is quite clear there is a ministerial role in so far as the designated site is concerned. I am aware that at least one Minister, the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, has walked the site, and perhaps other Ministers have as well. Will Mr. Mac Geehin be seeking an urgent meeting again with the Minister specifically to discuss that aspect of the ministerial role? If there was a positive response on the other issue, could that be brought to the Minister?

I also have a question for Mr. John Connolly. With his presentation, I feel I am in the presence of history. If there was an agreement through Government to have a plan designed and agreed for the whole battle site, would his response be positive or negative?