Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

That is very helpful because there is significant confusion. Representations were made to me on governance issues. I, therefore, welcome the Minister's clarification that the site was donated and that the governance structures will be different from what one might assume given the location.

Questions were asked about the process of site selection with reference to the transport studies conducted. At least two of the international paediatricians involved in the process considered they had not been consulted to the extent they had expected. Philip Lynch raised other concerns. The bottom line is access. I accept the Minister's bona fides in wanting to provide the best treatment for sick children and concur with her points about rationalising services and the need for high standards. There is no question that parents will go to the ends of the earth to obtain the correct treatment for their children. It is unfortunate, therefore, that such a worthy project has been dogged by concerns. I thank the Minister for her clarification of governance issues and look forward to hearing further details on the outstanding question of funding.