Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I accept that it is at times necessary for a Minister to intervene to progress projects but, in an effort to set the tone for discussions among officials, it would be valuable to develop the political context. We need to engage in high level political discussions rather than waiting to take on the role of fixer whenever an obstacle emerges. I encourage the Minister to establish political contacts. Perhaps the Taoiseach could raise the matter directly with the US President during his St. Patrick's Day visit.

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