Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

As I understand it, the agencies are developing the implementation plan and it will include projected costings, planning and value for money considerations. The economic development options and whatever opportunities or incentives are needed to attract the essential private investment to which Deputy Rabbitte refers are also under examination. The Government reaffirmed its commitment to the project at the end of last year but has asked that the first phase of implementation plan be presented very quickly, within the first quarter of this year. The Government will then seriously consider it.

Deputy O'Donnell mentioned housing plans. The sheltered housing projects at Moyross and Ballinacurra Weston are expected to go to tender this year. That will represent real progress of new positive development rather than just demolition. The projects at Southill and St. Mary's Park have also been developed. While I do not accept the amendment, nor am I in a position to, the Government is still strongly committed to the project. It will give active consideration to the first phase of the implementation plan and its recommendations.

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