Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Ó Laoghaire has said he wants the project to happen. The Government also wants it to happen and it will. I say to Deputy Barry that there is no stunt. As I mentioned, there are complexities owing to the size and cost of the project. As the Deputies know, there is significant procurement and State aid involved. It is really important that we deliver value for money. The development of the events centre in Cork is a priority for the Government. I speak on behalf of the Minister, Deputy Madigan, and the Tánaiste in saying this. Our commitment to the project is as strong now as it was in 2014 when Cork City Council awarded the tender. It is not a question of it not happening; it will happen. It is clear that the events centre represents an important opportunity for business and tourism in Cork. The Government is committed to investing in Cork which both Deputies should be delighted to hear. The project is in line with the objectives of Project 2040 such as investing in our culture, language and heritage. It sets out indicative investment levels for the national cultural institutions, including €22 million for the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork. Both the Crawford Art Gallery and the events centre have the potential to contribute much to the cultural life of Cork and also its economic development.

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