Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I am grateful for the opportunity to speak on this important national issue. I commend the Rolestown and St. Margaret's action group for its work. I reject the criticism of the group. For a voluntary organisation, it has acted professionally and I strongly support it.

I am opposed to this prison. The Chairman of the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights, Deputy Ardagh, had a brass neck to put forward his position when he knows the project is ill thought out, a waste of taxpayers' money and a scandal. I am horrified that he did so. I reject the idea that €30 million of taxpayers' money can be spent on a farm valued at €4 million. The existence of a €26 million gap is an important national issue. I am currently facing difficulties in seeking a couple of million euro for my own constituency to provide services to the most disadvantaged people.

I understand and support the residents' reactions to the impact this development will have on their community, environment and heritage. These are legitimate concerns. Thornton Hall is unsuitable for the proposed development. The site does not meet the criteria of the Minister's expert group on the matter. It was chosen based on incomplete, inaccurate and misleading information, following a questionable procurement procedure. The deal represents bad value for taxpayers' money. I strongly support this motion and urge all Deputies to reject the Government's proposal.

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