Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy is questioning me on decisions taken by the Northern Ireland Executive. Those are matters for it. I am subject to scrutiny by the Opposition and the Oireachtas on decisions I make. Nearly every one of the questions raised by the Deputy is on decisions made by the Northern Ireland Executive and responses it has given to where the planning process lies.

How have I taken a hands-off approach? Is the Deputy suggesting I intervene in the planning process, a process in which politicians should not be involved? Is he suggesting I get involved in a process in Northern Ireland in which the Northern Ireland Executive and politicians are closely involved? All of the matters raised by the Deputy are being dealt with by the Northern Ireland Executive.

I engaged with the Northern Ireland Executive on this matter in the first week in November. I have also met with the Good Friday committee on it. The funding commitment from this Government for 2015 and 2016 continues to be clear.

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