Chairman:

I thank the Tánaiste. In regard to Deputy Neville's comments, I have to put on my regional hat. It is very welcome that national unemployment is down to 6.1%. Unfortunately, in Waterford and the south east the unemployment rate stubbornly remains approximately 3% above the national average and is currently at approximately 9%. The Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, will support me on that. Although there have been many good news stories in recent years, I ask the Tánaiste to keep up her renewed emphasis on the regions because while it is welcome for new jobs to be created there, they must be well-paying jobs that will allow people to get mortgages and buy houses. Particular emphasis has been put on the regions in recent years but it does not seem possible for the unemployment rate in Waterford to come within 1% or 2% of the national average and any renewed emphasis on the region would be welcomed.