John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

I sincerely hope the issue can be resolved by negotiation. If it cannot be resolved by negotiation, then I hope it can be resolved by both sides committing to arbitration. Talks between the two parties have been going on for nearly a year and a half.

The offer on the table from the IRFU seems to be quite fair. I understand it includes a replacement fully-equipped club house within the existing grounds, a grant to include the Wanderers' Merrion Road club house and grounds and financial compensation for loss of income to cover the period when the club would not have the use of the stadium during reconstruction. There is also to be an extension of the current licence agreement for the lifespan of the new stadium, complimentary use of a hospitality suite — although this has been withdrawn — and an allocation of tickets for matches. The IRFU has been more than fair and accommodating in trying to come to terms with Wanderers Rugby Club. I am very disappointed that Wanderers continues to be recalcitrant.

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