Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

I welcome the opportunity to respond to the Senator on behalf of my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Deputy Parlon.

As Senator Terry stated, additional razor wire was installed on the perimeter wall of Farmleigh House as a temporary measure in response to the security arrangements surrounding the EU accession event taking place there on 1 May. The Senator will be glad to hear that, as we speak, the temporary razor wire is being taken down.

The installation of temporary razor wire is a matter for consideration in light of the security situation obtaining for any particular event being held at the house. It costs a great deal of money to put it up. I agree that it looks ugly. I also agree that it gives a wrong impression. However, it is not the kind of thing that is erected on a whim. Depending on the security situation, it may be necessary to put it back up again but, in general terms, it is desirable that it should not be there.

The Senator correctly said that, in any event, permanent razor wire of a more subdued kind is in place on an internal perimeter fence. That will not be taken away. It is expected that things will be back to normal within 24 hours.