Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I am not looking to be condescending at all. I am well aware of the difficulties the Senator is referring to and I have said as much. In the early part of my answer I pointed to the progress that we have made with the challenges that exist. I am making the point, however, that I find the Senator's position ironic.

This is something we have to think about. We are making funds available for Mayo and many parts of Ireland. That is happening. That is on the way. We need to do more. All I am asking Senator Conway-Walsh to take account of is the fact that funds have been announced and progress has been made. More needs to be done but the work the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Deputy Ring, is doing in this area is immense. When I put forward my side of the argument, it is not a question of me being smug any more than it is when Deputy Doherty accuses me of not caring about what is happening. There is another side to the story and I have a duty to put it forward, just as the Senator has a duty to put forward her side of the story.