Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. Everything is up for review in terms of title and designation. Many designations have taken place but nothing has happened. I do not think there is much to be gained from having a title if nothing happens. As mentioned by Deputy Calleary, under the current national spatial strategy projects in hub towns or gateway areas are prohibited from accessing funding under the rural development programme.

The Deputy mentioned the food competition in Kilkenny, which is for projects of €250,000 or more. This was approved last week. The purpose of the project is to engage with communities in devising a number of projects. It has a competitive edge to it, which one would expect in Kilkenny.

Small towns can make an application to the rural development programme for business creation and development. That is not ignoring anywhere else.

We are trying to enshrine the municipal concept in local government reform, and that begins with the premise that it will be built around a small town or cluster of towns. The town, with its hinterland, will be a focal point of a development programme. Whatever electoral or municipal areas are drawn up by the boundary commission, the terms of reference will seek to build hinterlands around towns. For example, I am sure Ballina would be the focal point of a wider hinterland in whatever municipal district is formed, and the same will apply to Castlebar or Westport. Any of the major towns which have had representation through a town council or municipal development will become a focal point.