Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

How the money is delivered and will be delivered in west Cork is also important. Anybody who has worked with a Leader company will appreciate the expertise and efficiencies provides. The individuals walk through the project with applicants. That will not be the situation if one must deal with someone from the Aran Islands. I mean no disrespect to the people in the Aran Island but applicants will not receive the same attention as previously. The LCDC is different as it is the company over the project and will be unable to work hand in hand on the projects. We will be lacking going forward. We have lost seven development officers in west Cork due to a decision made by whatever or whoever. Those development officers stood by the communities and walked with the projects hand in hand going forward. I gather from this morning's meeting that the service will no longer be available. I will watch closely what happens.