Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)

If the Minister of State conducted a poll this evening, most people would say that Mr. Ivan Yates was one of the most-liked and strongest Ministers for Agriculture this State ever had. He did a lot for agriculture, unlike the current Minister. One only has to look at the beet industry — for the first time in the history of the State, an agricultural crop has totally disappeared. I would like to hear the Minister of State's comments on that but he will not say anything because he knows it is an absolute disaster. One of the best cash crops in Cork, Carlow and Wexford has been wiped out by the Government.

Let us examine the promised by-passes at Enniscorthy, New Ross and Gorey. The latter has, admittedly, started but will take a long time to be completed. These were promised in 2002 and earlier, but the promises were empty. Problems at St. John's Hospital have been ongoing for 20 years. Phase one of the hospital has been built and we are still awaiting phase two, which I cannot understand. This is yet another promise made for County Wexford that has not been delivered.

Yesterday, the Minister for Finance spoke about third and fourth level education. I welcome the allocation of moneys to that area and also the Minister's plan for its development. I note that it is another five-year plan and I would like to know how many plans the Government actually has because it will run out soon.

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