Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)

I take this opportunity to congratulate the Irish soccer team on its wonderful performance last Sunday and on the Thursday before that. Football has given us some of our best national memories over the years. The recent matches, particularly the one on Sunday, provided, once again, wonderful national moments that brought the whole country together and brought great energy and excitement. I wish the team well in the draw taking place this afternoon for the play-offs that will be held in March. I congratulate, in particular, Troy Parrott, who gave a performance for the ages. Scoring five goals over two games is absolutely exceptional and a great credit to him. Credit also goes to the wider team for coming together, to Heimir Hallgrímsson for his leadership and to the FAI as well. We look forward to the excitement in the months ahead as we build up to the play-offs. I also congratulate our neighbours in Scotland. I did not think the end of Ireland's match on Sunday could be topped but, by God, it was some finish to the Scottish game. I congratulate the Scottish players on their qualification.

I take Deputy O Snodaigh's point. We have €6 million for the legacy plan and we want to make sure it has an impact and improves participation. That certainly is our objective.

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