Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I propose an amendment to the Order of Business that we invite the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, to come to the House this morning or afternoon to discuss the reason a €350 million project that could create 600 jobs is being stalled. Senator McFadden is absolutely correct in saying 452,882 of our fellow citizens are unemployed. That is the fault and responsibility of the Government. The Minister has refused to grant a foreshore licence critical to the development of the project at Poolbeg. Why did the United States ambassador to Ireland, Mr. Dan Rooney, feel compelled to talk to the Taoiseach and seek a meeting with the Minister? I propose an amendment to the Order of Business in order that the Minister can discuss the matter in the House.

I remind the Members opposite that on radio this morning the Minister did not accept he had made changes to the Dog Breeding Establishments Bill; he said the opposite. The hypocrisy of the Government has been further exposed.