Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Ministers of State for the reply with which, to a certain extent, I am satisfied in the sense that the commitment still stands. I understand the request of Meath County Council to provide funding was made some time ago, perhaps in the term of office of the previous Government. It is disappointing, therefore, to hear the Minister of State say the county council has not yet replied. I will urge my colleagues on the county council to take up this matter with it. The Minister of State needs to knock heads together, as this project would be mutually beneficial. The village of Donore is located beside the site. The local authority had earmarked funds for a playground there but failed to secure a suitable site. It seems this is the ideal solution, not only for Donore but for the wider area of east Meath and south Louth. I urge the Minister of State to telephone the officials involved. I will put a call through and ask my colleagues on the county council to push the issue. This would make the park a premier family and tourist destination. There are pony trials this weekend. In fact, there is something on there every weekend. The park gives great joy. It was one of the best investments during the Celtic tiger era. Apart from the site's sacred history for many people on the island, if a playground was provided, children, including my own, would obtain even more value and entertainment from it.