Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. I will say that it is time that progress was made. I agree with him that we must give a practical period of time to the new president to get the work under way.

It is really important that he is given the space to do that, with the knowledge and expectation that the Department will be ready to step in as and when required and to keep a watching brief and give encouragement. It is unfortunate, but we will not go into a history lesson. The past is the past and the future is for the young people of the region. I believe the discussions the Minister spoke about are pointing the way forward. My colleague wants to come in as well. That is Deputy Ó Murchú in case he does not know.

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