John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

If there is a Kerryman involved, it has to be done. The Acting Chairman is a Kerryman too. Deputy Wall should note it is three against one, like many a match.

A development control plan was drawn up some years ago for the National Gallery which comprises ten phases. Phases one to four and six to ten of the plan consist of an 1884 wing, portrait gallery, new infill building, roof conservation and 1902 frontage, Milltown wing, refurbishment of entrance hall, work on forecourt and ancillary areas and development on Clare Lane.

Deputy Deenihan is correct that, in 2004, costing was estimated at €32 million, but at this point funding is available only to bring the plan to design stage. A design team will be appointed by the Office of Public Works later this year to review and update the 2001 development control plan. It is probable the design team will suggest amendments, deletions and enhancements to the plan. If the amended plan suggested by the design team is of the same extent and quality of the 2001 plan, it is likely the funding required will be considerably in excess of €32 million. Naturally I will be doing my best to obtain the full amount in the context of the 2007 Estimates from the Minister for Finance.

See this speech in context