Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Chair for the opportunity to speak on this Bill. I thought we might have a new Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government here today who would listen to what people are saying. The Government parties should have learned that lesson. The people sent a strong message in the local and European elections that the Government needs to listen to them and the people directly involved, and I hope this listening will be part of today's process.

When I first heard about this Bill, I had an open and positive approach to it and welcomed debate on the issue. However, as the debate has progressed on the issues, my concerns have been raised. My initial reaction was that the overall thrust of the Bill was sensible because we needed to respond to the difficulty and do something about it.

The key words on this issue are "national" and "monuments" because we are talking about historical places of archaeological and national value. Our reaction in this debate must be measured and reflect the importance of these two key words. The issue is important. The number of excavation licences issued every year comes to an amazing figure of 2,000. The public would be unaware there are so many. Most people might think a few dozen or a few hundred licences would be issued. When we see the figure of 2,000 licences, we know something major is taking place and that something of value is being done for the nation. These are the kinds of issues we should discuss in this debate which deals with national monuments.

Before going into the details of the legislation, I would like to mention a number of key issues. I feel strongly that while not living in the past, we should have a great respect for our history and our traditions. My vision of a modern Ireland is one which respects the past but looks to the future. This historic aspect must be considered in the context of this Bill.

From the point of view of education, these sites are a massive resource for the State, the taxpayer and the public. Thousands of primary, second level and third level students visit many of our wonderful sites which, as well as having historical and cultural value, also have serious economic value. We should not take our eyes off the ball in that regard because it is crucial.

The cultural aspect of our national monuments is another important issue. There is great potential to develop this aspect. This morning I met 40 visitors from New York state who are visiting the Dáil. They did not come to Ireland for the weather but to see our culture, history, monuments and Parliament. Had they wanted the sun, they would have gone to Florida or somewhere else. We should wake up to the fact that cultural tourism is a significant resource.

The protection of archaeological finds should be a priority for us. However, I am realistic enough to know that we cannot allow situations occur where, for example, a roadway cannot be finished or we ignore the real world. I accept that and agree with many of the previous speakers who said we must get the balance right. We must deal with the archaeological issues but also move on and make progress.

Road transport and safety are important issues and proper facilities must be in place for motorists. As far as I am aware — I am open to correction on this — since we have built our new motorways, most of our serious accidents have happened on our smaller more dangerous roads. The motorways appear to have contributed to road safety. I feel strongly about the safety issue. We must face up to that issue and other transport issues.

The spending of public money is a serious issue and I am angered by money being wasted or the lack of accountability for the spending of taxpayers' money. We must be strong and focused on this issue. As legislators, we are elected by the people to look after their money. While I support and respect the protection of our culture and archaeological sites, when I see the estimated costs of €6 million with regard to Carrickmines, I must cry "stop".

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