Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister's response. Does he agree it is critical that the State moves as soon as possible to acquire the facilities from UCD? I understand the UCD authorities are very anxious to move the medical and engineering faculties to Belfield as soon as possible and they await direction from the State. I remind the Minister that if the State had acquired some of the property beside the Abbey Theatre, there would not now be a need to move the theatre to another site. The Minister has the support of all Members of the House for the acquisition of the extra space to ensure that the National Concert Hall can accommodate existing demand.

The Minister will be aware the concert hall is often overbooked for performances. Certain international performers would come to Dublin if the concert hall had suitable space. The backstage facilities in particular are inadequate. This is an urgent matter. UCD is anxious to move out and is prepared to facilitate the State in this respect because of the national significance of the proposal. I appeal to the Minister and the Government not to procrastinate and to bring this opportunity to fruition as soon as possible.

See this speech in context