Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)

Some of my Independent colleagues represent constituencies along the west coast, an area neglected by successive Governments. Independents such as Deputies James Breen, Harkin, McHugh and Cowley have been the strongest voices in this House for the major issues in the west, whether the urgent need for infrastructural investment or the hospital projects in Tuam and Ennis championed by Deputies McHugh and James Breen. Deputy Connolly has fought for basic lifesaving hospital services in Monaghan General Hospital. Deputy Cowley fearlessly supports a small community against the multinational Shell Oil. Deputy Healy has focused national attention on the need for greater investment in job creation projects in Tipperary pointing out that unemployment levels in Carrick-on-Suir are six times the national average. Deputy Catherine Murphy by her election put child care on the political agenda and the early child care supplement was last year's budget response to that, but there was no increase in this budget, ensuring this will remain an election issue.

Deputy Finian McGrath has been a powerhouse in support of people with disabilities and educational disadvantage in Dublin North-Central. With Independent Deputies like these who have energy, commitment and determination we can help build a modern, progressive but most of all more humane, equal and caring society.

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