Barry Ward (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I am delighted to hear that there is that level of engagement. I really am grateful to the Minister for his commitment to this. It is obviously important that this goes through the right channels and is done in the right way to ensure a sustainable programme over a period of time but I really do hope that no political difficulties prevent this important scheme from going ahead. I say that as one who comes from the capital of sailing in Ireland, Dún Laoghaire - although the Minister, as someone from Cork, may not accept that contention - but this is something that will benefit the whole of Ireland and towns and cities around the coast from Dún Laoghaire to Waterford, Cork, Galway, Derry and Belfast. This is an asset for the people of Ireland. I welcome the fact that the Minister is engaging, the commitment from Government and the fact that there is obviously will for this to happen at Government level. I hope it will happen soon. This is an asset and it introduces people to a sport, a means of trade and a means of getting work and employment in our marine industry, which is absolutely invaluable. We cannot ignore the importance of sail training for bringing people into that and giving them an opportunity they otherwise might not have. I thank the Minister for coming in today.