Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We recognised the importance of that and gave it a chapter of its own, chapter 6. The Senator has read it and I welcome that. I encourage the members to read it and if they wish to add to it they can in the weeks ahead. I agree that there is major potential in the marine. There are particular strategies for that as well. In addition, people need to know that we invest a great deal of taxpayers' money in that sector and its future. There is a large amount of top class research and development work ongoing in that area, which will future-proof the sector and encourage more job creation in the years to come. Again, it will also win investment. Only a small portion of the investment in research and development is by the State, but the State's involvement and its role in making it happen win extra investment from all over the world from people who recognise the talent and potential in the Irish system. That is what we are trying to do.

Deputy Casey referred to the ports. They are mentioned here too. There is great potential to develop other ports outside the cities. We are trying to get that regional balance and to use our assets more wisely.