Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senator Norris has received great support for such a proposal from those who have been associated with theatre life for many years and have had great achievements in this regard. I will assist the Senator and colleagues in the theatre world to achieve this in any way possible. Ultimately, the main reason to so do is to satisfy the demand of the customer. Everyone in Ireland knows the location of O'Connell Street in Dublin. However, in respect of many other locations in the capital city, while one's friends and relations might agree they sound great and should be visited sometime, they never do so. Members want the theatre to be for everyone in Ireland. It should be easily accessible at a location with which everyone is familiar. Moreover, I refer to the various transport links that are available when an O'Connell Street location is centre stage.

Senator Leyden raised the redevelopment of Leinster House, where health and safety are extremely important issues. I wish the Office of Public Works well in its undertaking. Its performance and expertise have been exemplary through the years. I look forward to working with the Cathaoirleach and other colleagues in the House to make this possible as soon as possible. The health and safety of all, including Members and the working staff of the House, is included in this regard.

Senators Buttimer and O'Reilly expressed their concerns regarding decentralisation. The Cavan decentralisation project was mentioned, which Senator Wilson has assured me is already lined up and in place.