Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

There have been several instances in which the Seanad has dealt with motions agreed on all sides. This generally happens in cases in which there is agreement and support on the issue in question. Every Member agrees that we must bring closure to the issue of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. We are all aware of the suffering is continuing. I welcome yesterday's statement by the Leader to the effect that the Taoiseach is involved in discussions with his counterpart in Britain. However, it will only be of assistance to him if the House can agree a motion on the matter to which I refer. If the various Leaders and the Whips can come together, it should be possible to agree a wording.

Will the Leader check the current status of Moore Street as a national monument? During the final weeks of its lifetime the previous Seanad engaged in a very informative and historic debate on this issue. Sitting in the Visitors' Gallery on that occasion were relatives of all the signatories of the 1916 Proclamation. Subsequent to that debate, a meeting was held with the Taoiseach and relevant Ministers and officials. I was also in attendance at that meeting. With five years to go before the centenary of the 1916 Rising, it is vital that we not allow this issue to be sidelined. If the relevant buildings in Moore Street were developed, they would become a major attraction. They would be a particular attraction for those Irish people who wish to know more about their history. When the House engaged in a debate on tourism yesterday, it was stated among the main preferences of tourists visiting this country were culture and history. I have no doubt that tourists coming to Ireland would flock to Moore Street if the right preservation and development were to take place. Perhaps the Leader might check the position on this matter and provide the House with a reply, if not today, then next week.