Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy knows, the topic is rather sensitive as meetings and discussions are ongoing, with further meetings planned. Due to the nature of these discussions, it is difficult to say much at this time. The process will continue, and as the Deputy noted, the announcement that the negotiations are continuing has received widespread welcome in the media and throughout the country.

The building in question is an iconic part of the city centre, situated in an area with a strong association with literature. Trinity College is nearby with its statues of Goldsmith - author of "The Deserted Village" - and Sheridan. It is an ideal area for a literary and cultural centre. I understand other buildings have also been considered, such as the National Museum and the National Library beside us. I am sorry we cannot provide more information at this stage but perhaps on the next Question Time, after the summer recess, if negotiations continue we may be in a position to give more concrete information. Negotiations over property and ownership can be fluid.

Dublin has already been designated as a city of literature by UNESCO and it is only proper that we have an iconic building as part of this, such as the example mentioned by the Deputy. It would provide a focus and we will see what will come from these negotiations.

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