Dick Spring
Ceist:18 Mr. Spring asked the Taoiseach if he intends to review the legislation and structures relating to the development of the Temple Bar area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Temple Bar (Dublin) Development.
I am strongly in favour of the development of Temple Bar as Dublin's cultural quarter which is now being implemented.
As the House will be aware, the development is proceeding on the basis of a partnership between the local community represented by Temple Bar Development Council, the local authority, Dublin Corporation, and central Government, represented primarily by my Department.
Two companies have been established by Government to implement the project, Temple Bar Renewal Ltd., chaired by the Lord Mayor of Dublin in office whose essential function is now to decide which development proposals merit the incentives provided by the Government for the Temple Bar area in the Finance Act, 1991 and Temple Bar Properties Ltd., whose essential function is to act as the cultural and property development company for the Temple Bar area on behalf of the Government.
I have asked that, in the case of both these companies, the directors, who are appointed by the Taoiseach, should declare any interest they have in the Temple Bar area, or outside it, which might give rise to conflict with the operation of the company of which they are directors. This is being done. I am, otherwise, fully satisfied with the legislative and structural basis for the development of Temple Bar.