Caít Keane (Fine Gael)
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I thank the witnesses for attending. I agree with the Acting Chairman that we do not often hear about the good things. The witnesses have brought all good with them. The bad things that happened were not related to the community. That should be said.

I listened very carefully to all the presentations and note that what is there in terms of community and educational development must continue. A way must be found to facilitate that. Integration of community programmes with local authorities is happening all over the country. When we discuss the Bill, we must ensure representation. While I do not know how it will work out, it cannot be the case that there is no community representation. Too much has been invested in it.

Community development, as a whole, has to be part of everything. It cannot be developer-led but has to come from the ground up. As was said, the county development plan should be used as a blueprint. I accept land is valuable in the city but every city in Europe has found ways and means of developing community spaces such as gardens and playgrounds that are integrated and overlooked.

There is no point in throwing the baby out with the bathwater as there is much to be learned with both the good and the bad. I do not believe anyone wants the docklands development authority structure to continue as it was. However, we have to take the best from it and ensure that is not lost. There also needs to be proper integrated consultation in this, which is occurring in every community with every development plan. It is important a methodology has been laid down in this regard, as it cannot be done on a wing and a prayer.