John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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I will have to get on to the CIA to get an ear piece because I cannot hear the clerk to the committee very well. He could talk up his sleeve to me then.

Deputy Deasy and I visited Moore Street and the general battlefield site on Moore Lane. I was very impressed by the tour we were given. I was impressed by the significance of the site, not just in terms of Nos. 14 to 17 Moore Street but the general area. Its value as a tourist destination is enormous. It is as a place where one can sense history as one is told the story while walking through the market. The area is quite dilapidated, however. I know that the Project Jewel portfolio is sold and that some of the properties are now in the ownership of the State. If a sensible approach is taken to the development of the area, some of the other properties that are central to the battlefield area could be saved. The Government should examine that.

It is a policy issue but when we were there we could not help but notice the number of young foreign tourists being brought through the streets, exploring our history. Many of the buildings are dilapidated and do not represent what we all speak about in the context of our 2016 celebrations next year. Some of the plaques are in the wrong location and some are quite dated in terms of their presentation and appearance. From a public interest point of view as well as in terms of the economy and what can be generated by way of tourism, the Minister and the Government should re-examine the battlefield area. They should examine what the families of the 1916 group are trying to achieve and give an appropriate response.

I ask for the appropriate response. Generally, we do not have a role at this stage. It is sold. However, it is only fair, having been invited there, that we reflect on it at this committee.