Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I join with all colleagues in welcoming Senator Niall Ó Brolcháin to the Seanad, and I also welcome his family. I congratulate him on his win and wish him well in his time here.

I was delighted to note the conversion of the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism to the idea that is close to the hearts of many Members of this House, the relocation of the Abbey Theatre to the GPO site in the middle of O'Connell Street rather than to a site in George's Dock, an issue so ably argued by our colleague Senator Norris. As many of us subscribe to this idea, I genuinely welcome the Minister's conversion. It will cost about half of the estimated figure for relocation to George's Dock and makes more sense. I hope the work is undertaken quickly in order that we will have the theatre in place for the great anniversary celebrations in 2016.