Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Given the finances we are likely to have, I do not think that is a luxury we can afford. I agree with the Deputy, however, that a strong urban centre is essential for stronger rural areas. There is a magnet in Galway city, but the challenge is to get people beyond that. That is where the programmes are needed. There have been a lot of rural development programmes in the Deputy's area and there would want to be, considering the number of structures there, in order to ensure that the people of the area are getting that.