Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Minister will agree that the loss to Dublin of the internationally renowned Web Summit is a hugely embarrassing development for the city and the country. Will the Minister indicate whether the Government has any legislative proposals or if it will implement the programme for Government to create a sufficient technology infrastructure and address the other factors which have been blamed for the decision to move the Web Summit to Lisbon, including a lack of State funding? The Minister will agree that this is a major development. The summit is worth millions to the Dublin economy and more to the country in terms of potential foreign direct investment. Could the Government have done more to salvage the situation by acting faster? Will the Minister outline what the Government knew in advance of this decision?

The second issue on which I ask the Minister for confirmation relates to the commissions of investigation legislation. Recent newspaper reports have indicated some concerns about the constitutionality of the inquiry into certain sales by IBRC which is being undertaken by Mr. Justice Brian Cregan. He is reporting to the Taoiseach's Department at the request of the Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan. Is the Government aware of this and can it confirm whether the Taoiseach's office has received any information or communication from Mr. Justice Cregan on concerns about the constitutionality of the inquiry into certain sales by IBRC?

On the public health (alcohol) Bill, a drink sponsored report has been published today which, of course, given the sponsors, does not recommend limiting alcohol advertising at sporting events. Will the Minister indicate when the public health (alcohol) Bill will be brought before the House and say what the up-to-date position is on legislation pertaining to minimum pricing of alcohol?

Will the Minister refer to the Taoiseach and Government the need to have a Dáil debate on the unfolding troubling situation in Northern Ireland since summer? It would be appropriate to make time available for the House to debate that.

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