Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his positive reply. I am sure that on his next visit to Galway city and county, he will be happy to meet the relevant personnel to discuss a fire service facility for Galway. I invite him to do so.

The Minister of State mentioned the project consideration stages. When they are all listed we can see that it is a long process to get a new building delivered. The stages include submission of preliminary and detailed appraisals; submission of design brief; selection of site; application for approval in principle; appointment of design consultants; submission of a preliminary design; planning application; submission of preliminary cost plan, detailed design and cost plans; tender process; and construction stage. The project in Galway is therefore one that will run for a number of years. However, we need to get the site identified and get a submission from the local authority to the Minister of State's Department. I am sure the Minister of State, together with his officials, will be able to evaluate and progress the project as quickly as possible for the city of Galway and its environs. It is a growing city, as the Minister of State is aware. I know that he is a regular visitor to the Galway races. It is a popular place. There is a hospital, a university and an institute of technology in the soon-to-be Atlantic Technological University. The city has a large population and road network. It is vital that our fire services are fit for purpose and modern. I urge the Minister of State to take hold of this project when it reaches his Department from the county and city councils.