Seanad debates
Thursday, 26 June 2003
Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Bill 2002: Second Stage.
The Houses could be a source of revenue, which they are to an extent but they are a significant tourism asset. It never ceases to amaze me how difficult it is to get in here, although I understand the security reasons. I walked in off the street into the state capitol building in Raleigh, North Carolina on a Saturday morning. Once I had proved who I was and produced my passport I could wander around the place. There is not a possibility that could be done in the Houses. I do not say that is what should happen but this issue should be examined. The public should have easier access. It must be regulated, as people cannot be allowed to walk around willy nilly. Perhaps that issue can be examined.
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