Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also congratulate the Minister of State, who has worked hard on this committee for quite a while. I agree fully with her that these issues will take time to address. Communities themselves know the issues and what they want in their communities, no matter what part of Ireland one goes to. Most of them are prepared to play their part, and will play a part, to develop their communities. They want to be involved in decision making on what is best for their own community. The announcement of €250 million for rural communities in the next five to six years is welcome.

The Minister of State is aware of the enormous challenges out there for rural communities. Broadband and rural electrification was mentioned. It took less than 30 years to complete the rural electrification of the entire country on a planned phased basis. The analogy has been drawn on several occasions but I hope we are not waiting that length of time for broadband.

I would like the opportunity for rural communities to help themselves, as mentioned by Deputy Dowds. There is phenomenal talent, professionalism and volunteerism out there. They recognise what is best for their community. I will give two small instances. Last week I was pleased to read of a community initiative in Loop Head, spearheaded by a colleague of mine, Gabriel Keating, over six or seven years. It is now the only place in Ireland that is named in the global top 100 green sustainable destinations. This is a major achievement for a small community, which makes it a nicer place to live and ensures it is part of the tourism industry in this country. There is wonderful talent out there and we must tap into the communities that have a proven track record of helping themselves. We have to help all communities, but I believe people who show their dedication through Tidy Towns, community councils and so on, should be listened to.

In conclusion, I would like to give an instance of a cross-border community achievement. I live in Carlingford. The only time one hears about my own famous lough is when the wind starts to blow, but it has been designated the adventure capital of the country. Two communities, on both sides of the border, came together and advertised what they have on offer in both land and sea sporting facilities in their respective communities. It is a wonderful cross-border achievement. There is talent and will out there. We must tap into it. As the Minister of State says, tourism has provided jobs in the last four or five years, and there are more jobs out there. I ask for her indulgence and co-operation wherever she can.