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

I thank Deputy McAuliffe. I agree wholeheartedly and welcome the positive comments generally. It is very encouraging we agree. There is no doubt this is an unprecedented crisis. We have responded incredibly well at local community level and with all arms of the State as well.

I take the point about communications from the HSE and the Department of Education. If we could correct the transport issue, it would give us lots of opportunities in rural areas. This is an issue on which the Minister of State, Deputy Joe O'Brien, is working. It really would unlock a lot more potential across the country. At the moment, we are seeing a significant concentration in large urban centres. It is important that we try to strike a balance.

I take on board the Deputy's positive comments on the different elements. We have stepped up really well as a nation, and we should be very proud of that.