Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. It is just two years since this Seanad came into being and he has been in the House many times, and this is the best piece of news he has brought me in those two years. I thank him for that. Perhaps it was unintentional that he was the bearer of the news but I am pleased that it is coming close to completion. I am also pleased that I was one of the few people politically, as a member of the national monument committee of Cork County Council back in the 1980s, to urge that this process take place. I will, as suggested by the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes in that response, contact some local community groups which are doing a lot of work regarding walkways in the area. There is a very vibrant community in Drimoleague, which is down the road. The information is positive and I look forward to the opening. As a lot of money is being spent there, perhaps Deputy Shatter would convey to Deputy Brian Hayes that there should be an official opening. It is of major interest and work has been going on there for 12 years. Sometimes we are critical of the OPW but I am pleased that the fruits of the labour of those involved can be seen by the public. That is very important because there is some public concern. They are kept in the dark and this information will throw light on the project and I am glad it is coming close to its conclusion. I thank the Minister for the positive news.