Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am reminded that during my last visit to the island with Deputy Griffin, the Dáil on the island was pointed out to me. The Cathaoirleach Gníomhach will be familiar with this too. I then asked about the name of a strand that was within sight and earshot where more than one or two seals were roaring and bawling. The person who was with us said, "Well, we call that the Seanad". Small improvements have been made on the island and hopefully this year people travelling long distances should be able to go to the toilet. This is a basic thing and the OPW is committed to making this change this year.

On a wider issue, this island is of huge international significance also, not only nationally but internationally. It has to be safe, we have to protect it, and we have to hand it on to the next generation in as good, if not better, a condition, than we received it. I pay tribute to the OPW staff working in Ionad an Bhlascaoid. It is a magnificent visitor attraction even for people who cannot go to the island and the investment there will stand the test of time. For any one who has not been there, I urge them to consider visiting. Hopefully, this year we will see a marked improvement in respect of the visitor facilities and a plan going forward with all State agencies, including an Roinn Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán, which will help in the overall capital delivery programme for An Blascaod Mór.

See this speech in context