Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Has the Leader been able to establish the status of the historic buildings in Moore Street? I raised this matter two weeks ago because it is becoming somewhat urgent at this stage if we are to prepare to have a development in Moore Street in time for 2016. The Leader will recall that in the last weeks of the previous Seanad we had an exceptionally good debate in this Chamber with all parties subscribing to the views being put forward, but what was particularly significant about the debate was that in the Gallery were relatives of all the 1916 leaders, the first time since 1916 that the relatives came out in a united fashion to back any single proposal. Meetings took place with the Taoiseach at that time, the appropriate Ministers and the officials from the Departments and it was clear we were gradually reaching a stage where there was support for the plans being put forward by the committee at that time.

It would be a significant development because it would be an important focal point of the centenary. This is where the leaders surrendered in 1916. It is the Alamo of Ireland in many ways. It would be very important because it would give people the opportunity to visit the buildings and experience what happened at that time. It would be good for schools which could have projects on it. Above all else, however, from a tourist point of view, we have seen in the surveys that history is in the top three interests for all tourists coming into the country, and I could see these historic buildings being exceptionally successful. I do not know if the Leader has had the opportunity of establishing the status and, if not, I can understand that, but he might have a discussion with the Taoiseach on this matter because the group promoting this idea should be met. They may have been met already but I would like to think we would not let the opportunity pass.

I understand there are also opportunities for investment moneys being made available and therefore all the money would not come from the public purse. The GPO seems to be sidelined to some extent. I might be wrong in that and when we get the report we will know but the GPO was very much to the fore in the initial prospective plans. I believe the plans for the centenary are now reaching an advanced stage. I would very much appreciate it if the Leader could ascertain that information for us.