Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I agree the question of devolution of policing and justice to Northern Ireland is a very pressing matter. I agree it must be addressed as a matter of urgency. I agree a good deal of work has been done already which has engendered much public confidence in the process and the support of all sections of the community for devolved policing. It is far preferable to have local public representatives in charge of these areas, those with whom people can interact and relate, rather than the current non-devolved status of those powers which is the case at present. It should be possible to resolve these issues with good will and leadership on all sides. There are a number of issues of concern to the two communities, obviously with different points of emphasis in each case. However, all these matters can be progressed if there is sufficient good will on all sides. Ultimately, there is a need for agreement to be reached among the parties themselves, quite apart from the Governments seeking to move people to agreement as quickly as possible. This matter can and must be resolved and I trust the outcome of ongoing discussions will enable that to take place.

I refer to the question of Middletown. The Minister for Education and Science was in a position to inform the North-South Ministerial Council of the fact that he was lifting the pause on capital and that some interim works would be undertaken. This was welcomed by everyone including the Deputy First Minister, who was very committed to the project when he served as education Minister. We can envisage some developments there in the course of the coming year, consistent with the overall development plan outlined for it.

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