Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 170: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement in relation to the project steering committee, chaired by the Office of Public Works, in respect of the Liffey Valley and the proposals regarding a Liffey Valley national park; the people who are the members of the project steering committee and in what capacity; when it was established; how frequently it has met; its terms of reference; and if the steering committee will be arranging for public workshops as indicated in earlier statements made by the Government in respect of the proposed Liffey Valley national park. [12325/06]

Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)
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A steering group was formed in October 2004 to consider the feasibility of establishing a Liffey park, as was originally envisaged when St. Catherine's Park in Lucan was acquired. The steering group, which comprises officials representing the county councils of Fingal, Kildare, south Dublin and Dublin city, as well as the Office of Public Works, has met on 13 occasions. The group is examining management models, inventorising resources, establishing a realisable vision for the concept and producing recommendations for implementation, within the statutory and operational ambits of the relevant public authorities. A firm of specialist consultants was engaged to carry out a detailed feasibility study to assist the steering group in its deliberations. Public consultation, as advertised in the newspapers, was an integral part of this process and a number of meetings were held with interested groups. Further public meetings are planned. Meetings were also held with the local area and strategic policy committees of the local authorities.