Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Feighan for allowing me to add my voice in support of his argument and I welcome the Minister for Education and Science. I will not discuss the matter in great detail as there may be further opportunities to discuss it. The project by the Newfound Consortium is an excellent initiative. I attended the launch of the project and supported the development of Lough Key Forest Park as a member of Roscommon County Council. I am aware that Senator Feighan has been very active in this regard.

The refusal of planning permission for this project is a major blow for north Roscommon, which has not received the investment it deserves in respect of decentralisation and other developments. This project was regarded as a bright hope for the region and a tourist project that would create jobs and opportunities for the people of north Roscommon. The loss of such a project is a major blow. The project was the second hotel project mooted for Lough Key Forest Park. I supported the first project, which fell through at the time it was due to be built. The second project was a serious development from very reputable developers who were prepared to invest money. They have already invested a considerable amount of money in the design of the project. It seems grossly unfair to refuse the project, given the amount of work that has gone into it. It is akin to creating a reserve in the area west of the Shannon. It appears that An Bord Pleanála believes that there should be no economic development in the west.

If it is necessary to rezone the land in question in order to proceed with this development, it should be done. Roscommon County Council should take a proactive decision in this regard, put a new plan before its members, vote to rezone the land and return to An Bord Pleanála. I appeal to the council not to let this project die.