Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Jul 2001

Vol. 540 No. 1

Written Answers. - National Stadium Project.

John Bruton

Ceist:

443 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if his attention has been drawn to a report in a newspaper (details supplied) to the effect that it is the opinion of a leading economist that the national stadium should be postponed due to the general lack of capacity in the construction sector which is affecting other essential infrastructural projects and which would be aggravated by the diversion of construction resources to the building of a stadium at this particular time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19672/01]

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation (Dr. McDaid)

I am aware of the newspaper report referred to by the Deputy. However, I wish to reiterate the Government's commitment to the development of sport and, in particular, the provision of adequate sporting and recreational facilities in this country. As regards Stadium and Sports Campus Ireland, I have recently appointed a group of independent consultants to carry out an overview of the costs and benefits of the project. Their report is due to be completed in mid September.