Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I would like to ask about the cost efficiency of Ireland's Presidency of the EU. Can the Minister of State guarantee that many of those who provide goods and services during the Presidency will be based in Ireland? That would ensure the Presidency has an impact on the local economy. The Minister of State mentioned a figure of €60 million. There is potential for the catering and wholesale trades to benefit from the Presidency. We need to support local and indigenous Irish businesses, particularly in the restaurant and hotel services industry, by generating business for them. That would give them a leg up in the current economic crisis.

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