Jimmy Deenihan
Question:4 Mr. Deenihan asked the Taoiseach if agreement has been reached with the Royal Dublin Society regarding the national conference centre; and if so, when construction will commence.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - National Conference Centre.
The Royal Dublin Society has recently submitted financial projections in relation to the proposed development of a national conference centre at its site at Ballsbridge.
The essential difficulty for the society is providing the funds to match the European Structural Funds that are available for a national conference centre. To date the society has been unable to generate the funds required.
The steering group of officials viewed the latest proposal as deserving of a further final investigation and this is now underway.
In these circumstances, it is not possible to indicate when construction might commence. I am happy, nonetheless, to repeat the Government's firm commitment to the development of a national conference centre by the RDS or by other promoters — it is provided for in the National Development Plan.
If the Government commits the £50 million promised in the National Development Plan how much is the RDS expected to commit, and will the site it is offering be considered part of its contribution as that would be essential? If the RDS does not fulfil its obligations in respect of the centre will the Government then consider the other sites and offers available? Will he indicate from where those offers are coming?
I have no details of where those offers are coming from. I was asked about this matter before, it was mentioned that it may be located in the Phoenix Park and that site will be considered. I understand a good deal of money has been spent in preparing a presentation in that regard. In relation to details of the submission by the RDS or by any other group, it is not the practice in this House to reveal such confidential information because it could be taken up by their opposition in other areas.
Will the Taoiseach clarify whether the offer of the site will be included as part of the contribution from the RDS as that is crucial in it being able to raise its required contribution?
That is part of the detail that will be dealt with on a confidential basis between the Department and the people concerned and I will not comment on it. I am certain that point will get a full hearing and that everything that should be taken into account will be taken into account.
Will the Taoiseach ensure that full consideration is given to the cost of the site as part of the financial contribution being made by the RDS as I understand that is a point of contention? Will he reconfirm to the House that the national conference centre will be located in Dublin?
I expect the national conference centre to be located in Dublin at whatever venue is successful in attracting it. The answer to the Deputy's first question is the same as I gave Deputy Deenihan.