Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The announcement of plans for the commemorative centre is welcome. However, there are questions. The Minister has paid €4 million for what is a derelict site. Why were these buildings not handed over to the State by NAMA, instead of the State having to pay €4 million for a derelict site? The Minister and I have been in these buildings so we are aware of the state of them. On the tendering process, were there other tenders? Where did the figure of €5 million come from?

Was an approach made to Chartered Land, appealing to its sense of culture or history, if it has one, to take a more innovative approach to the area and to consider having more small business there, which would be in keeping with the historical area, so that it would be a living street? People lived there for hundreds of years, and there is also the street trading tradition. Such an approach would make the street a vibrant, living street again.

Regarding the monument, is the Minister sure that it will be curated, restored and preserved in accordance with best international practice?

See this speech in context