Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I will not be disingenuous and read the script in closing because the Deputy is well aware of the response.

The issue he is raising is a much broader issue in terms of the reality of living on the islands in this day and age. It is a broader issue for Government and future governments to consider in respect of the economic, financial and other supports that can be put in place to ensure - it is something we all want to achieve - that we keep families living on the islands but also increase the number of people living on the islands, and particularly attract young people who want to choose living out on our beautiful islands as a lifestyle and a wonderful way of living.

As I outlined in the opening response, that is the scheme that is in place, but what the Deputy is raising here is a much broader issue about affordability and the harsh reality at times of services being available on the mainland and people being able to access those services and being able to afford to access those services. I will take this back to the Minister and for wider discussion within government around that as well.

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