Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

One must balance the financial return with the cultural and social capital that could materialise as a country if we acquired these buildings. This balance must be struck. I agree with the Deputy that we should keep an open mind on acquiring some of these buildings. However, we should acquire them for the right reason because any benefit to the country may be in the future rather than the present. We should weigh up the best use for them and determine who are the people to acquire these buildings where there is a local community demand. I realise the Deputy is a good community worker, he understands the relevance of acquiring a building that is in place and ready-made for a community and he understands the social capital that could be gained from this. In my discussions with NAMA I will emphasise this consideration and that it is not simply a matter of getting a monetary benefit. Other benefits might arise which could be of major use for the future of society, our communities and especially our young people.

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