I wish to briefly raise the issue of the Graiguenamanagh flood relief scheme. It is my own town. In 2016, there was a devastating flood event which wreaked havoc and mayhem on many families and businesses in Graiguenamanagh. Funding was approved by the Minister of State in his previous term as Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW which was much welcomed and received. In March 2020, a design team was appointed to come up with a scheme but five years later and we have not even gone for planning permission. Getting these schemes over the line is far too slow. I ask the Minister of State to try to prioritise the Graiguenamanagh flood relief scheme and get it over the line, because, as I said, the flood event happened almost ten years ago and ten years later, we still do not have any works to make the town, the businesses and the families feel safer for the next event that may come.

Sentiment score: 0.17

107. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform for an update on the refurbishment works scheduled to be carried out at Kilkenny Castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15973/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

I congratulate the Ministers of State on their new roles. I have not had the opportunity to formally congratulate them previously. I am seeking an update on the refurbishment works that are scheduled to be carried out at Kilkenny Castle.

Sentiment score: 0.24

I welcome the significant investment in Kilkenny Castle in recent years. I look forward to continued investment being made in the years ahead. Kilkenny Castle is a jewel in the crown of the south east. Visitor numbers are absolutely through the roof every year. The castle is a fantastic asset on our doorstep and is worth a huge amount to the local economy. The Minister and Ministers of State are always welcome to Kilkenny, especially if they bring the cheque book. We will welcome them any time. Last Sunday, I had the opportunity to visit Kilkenny city and the castle itself. The crowd of people there was absolutely unbelievable. To have a state-of-the-art facility like Kilkenny Castle in the middle of the city centre is quite unique, not only in the context of the south east but across Ireland in general. I encourage everybody to get into their cars this summer and go down to Kilkenny and enjoy everything that is great about it.

Sentiment score: 0.41

If people want to cycle, they can do so. That is not a problem. In Kilkenny, we are proud of our heritage, history and culture. The continued investment in Kilkenny Castle is most welcome. As stated, over the course of the summer, I would love to welcome the Minister and the Ministers of State to Kilkenny city. We will take a tour of the castle. They will be able to explore everything that is brilliant about our wonderful city.

Sentiment score: 0.43