Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I also extend our condolences to the family, friends and indeed club colleagues of the rúnaí of Na Fianna GAA Club, Deirdre Lambe, who passed away on 14 April. I know she is greatly missed and lamented by all who knew her.

As Deputy Ellis has said, we acknowledge that metro north is vitally important transport infrastructure. We also accept that it is important that work begins on its construction as soon as possible. I set those two points out clearly because I do not want us to have a diversionary or false debate. This is not a matter of opposition to the metro. However, the current proposals would see Na Fianna GAA Club, which has 3,000 members, moved off its grounds for up to seven years. That would be catastrophic for the club. It cannot be allowed to happen. An alternative must be found. Na Fianna is not only a GAA facility but it is used widely by local schools and the community, as is normal with clubs of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael. The current proposals make no sense. It provides an impossible situation for Na Fianna GAA Club. Its members will be in Leinster House next Wednesday to address the Joint Committee on Transport, Tourism and Sport and put forward their case. They are not here to have a row or fall out with people. They are looking for a resolution that protects this important community facility.

What other locations were considered? Will the Minister consider the proposal put forward by my colleague, Deputy Ellis? As has been said, I am focusing on Na Fianna GAA Club, but equally I could cite Scoil Chaitríona, Scoil Mobhí and Whitehall College, all public facilities. Members of the public are beside themselves with worry about this.

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