Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for what he has said and the positive and constructive approach the Department has taken which I noted in my initial contribution. He believes the matter will be sorted out and has said the Department is examining various mechanisms to ensure we can have a linear park. I also understand the Department's concerns about ensuring value for money from its point of view. It is encouraging that the issue is being examined closely. The Department can see not only its responsibilities in terms of the value of the land but also its wider responsibilities to the community in meeting the needs of the town of Ashbourne where many people will be extremely pleased about this, given the work they have done. Many voluntary groups, in particular those involving young mothers, have worked very hard to try to advance the project. They have pushed politicians to highlight the matter to ensure the project will be delivered. As I said, Councillor Sean Smith and others have has paid particular attention to it. We will take the response in a positive manner and allow negotiations to continue. I appreciate that negotiations on land are sensitive. We cannot jump up and down in the Dáil about every last detail and I will not do so. I will take the news of a positive approach home with me and share it with those in my constituency. They will be very happy and patient in allowing the process to play out, knowing that the Department and Meath County Council will continue their engagement which, up to now, has been constructive. We will await further developments.

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