Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

How can any rational person entertain such an approach? If Opposition Members want to talk about value for the taxpayer, let us look at the finances relating to Thornton. Its development costs will be a fraction of the cost of redeveloping Mountjoy Prison. The new prison development at Thornton Hall will be more cost effective to operate, have better facilities with room for expansion and have the added benefit of the moneys obtained from the sale of Mountjoy.

See this speech in context