Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy O'Dowd for some of his kind words. I recognise the difficulties in which he finds himself and his frustration at the delay. I should reiterate that it is not my job to interfere in individual matters of this sort or individual decisions. My job is to set policy which I have done. The Deputy is correct in saying that I very strongly welcomed this project when it was announced and I still welcome the fact that it will go ahead. I would be very distressed if I thought for one moment that there was any sinister or untoward motive by anyone in delaying this project. According to the information I have, TII has taken the pulse of local residents. The design of this project goes back to 2004. They have taken the wishes of local residents into account, including the presence of sports clubs which have been set up and the changes that have taken place. They have not abandoned the project and I would be very surprised had they done so. What they have said is that because of the length of time which elapsed it is necessary to review some of its conditions and so it will do that. That is in response to residents who have made some very good points. Regrettably, the result will be a 12 to 18 month delay. There is absolutely no intention of which I know that this project will be abandoned but they have decided it would be wise to take into account developments over the last 15 years which seems reasonable, if very frustrating.

I will certainly meet the Deputy privately on this and will convey the views of that meeting and his remarks this afternoon to TII.

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