Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

I am disappointed to realise and those concerned in the particular cultural institutions will be disappointed to learn that their fate will be left hanging over them indefinitely. I imagine passing it over to the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform is a rubber-stamping exercise in that ultimately it is a decision for the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. These institutions fall under the remit of his Department and I would be quite surprised were the Minister, Deputy Howlin, to challenge what he proposes. It is disappointing that the Minister was unable to come forward today with a more realistic timeframe, which at least would let people know before the summer recess. Does the Minister intend to publish the cost benefit analysis to support the decisions he will take?

Finally, I thank the Minister for his kind words. I enjoyed working as spokesperson for arts and heritage and I look forward to moving on to a new portfolio on Members' return. The Minister was pleasant to work with 95% of the time.

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