I would not like the Deputy to believe that I am using jargon in order to cover for inaction on my Department's part. The issue of establishing a conservatoire is dear to my heart and tremendous commitment and support has been given by the Minister for Education and Science and the Taoiseach to achieving that goal. We want this project to commence in the year 2000; it is not a pie in the sky idea, but one which will come to fruition.
The Department of Education and Science and the working group have been in contact with a number of interested parties. Not least among these is UCD in view of the fact that the possibility of using Earlsfort Terrace is under dis cussion. The Deputy may be aware that newspaper reports noted the interest of DCU in the project and that that institution, and others invited to do so by the public notice issued by the working group, made vigorous representations in respect of the academy many months ago. Many options have been put forward.
As stated previously, I would like the conservatoire to be established at Earlsfort Terrace but many issues must be considered before a final decision is made. If DCU or any other institution fulfils the criteria laid down, their proposals would be worthy of consideration. However, the Minister for Education and Science and I are continuing discussions with UCD and others. I reiterate that the Government views this matter in a serious light and we want the project to commence in the year 2000.