Denis Landy (Labour) | Oireachtas source

This hotel is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents the beginning of a part of our culture that defines us as a nation more than any other. It binds people throughout the country together.

I call on the Leader to ask the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, who has responsibility for the Office of Public Works, OPW, and the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, to meet with the GAA to find a solution for the purchase of this building. This has been done elsewhere in the country. Cahir Castle, Ormonde Castle and the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary have been taken over by the OPW. I ask that this iconic building not be allowed to deteriorate and that we as a nation take responsibility for our culture and purchase it.