Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. Work has begun and, just last week, we had an extraordinary day in which people were invited to come to the parish hall with memorabilia to help identify people who had lived in the area when it was Richmond Barracks, Keogh Square and St. Michael's estate. Things are starting to move very fast. Although it probably does not concern her Department directly, I ask the Minister to consider the needs of the whole precinct outside Richmond Barracks, particularly the streetscape, footpaths and lighting. It would be good if something could be done through the Government to enhance these, given that we expect thousands of visitors next year. Given that so much dedication, time, effort and funding has been put into Richmond Barracks, for the opening day there should be a proper streetscape, lighting and footpaths in the precinct to enhance the area even more.

I want to stress how important this project is for people living in the Inchicore area and the wider community. We are grateful it was chosen as one of the main flagship projects for 1916. I want to extend my thanks to the Minister, to whom we have spoken on numerous occasions when she has visited the site, the graveyard and the courthouse. I want to extend to her the appreciation of all in the area.

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