Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I apologise for the sound problem. I could hear that there was a difficulty. With regard to the gateways generally, the Department is working with Forfás on a report which will look at the infrastructure needs. The Deputy is correct. The whole purpose of the national spatial strategy is to produce a much better balance on the island. There was a noise when I was making that point.

On the Atlantic corridor, which would be of particular interest to Deputy Ring, who put the question, the feasibility study is to consider the enhanced linkages and networks between Shannon and Limerick, Cork and Waterford cities. This study is nearing completion and it will be well worth debating when it is completed.

I agree with Deputy O'Dowd regarding his patch, the north east, and that of Deputy McGinley, the north west, in that one should consider the difficulties posed in those regions by the abomination that is the Border. I was in Clones yesterday and, as both Deputies will know, it has been hit extremely badly because of its location. North-South co-operation, or all-island co-operation, could be very beneficial and could result in a win-win situation. I agree with the Deputy that this is an important area.

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