Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The Minister will understand why Deputy McGinley and I are concerned about the level of unemployment in County Donegal, which stands at 14%, significantly above the national average. It requires special attention because, notwithstanding the Minister's reply, County Donegal feels isolated from the rest of the country. Not enough has been done in recent development plans to ensure infrastructure such as broadband, access to roads and other services which the Minister mentioned are delivered to Donegal. There is a willingness to provide this infrastructure in the current plan but implementation is what matters. Despite several national development plans, Donegal has lost competitiveness in both traditional and other industries. I welcome what the Minister said on announcements in the past year but he will realise that Donegal is starting from a low base in terms of employment opportunities.

When will the Government be in a position to announce further infrastructural developments for Donegal, particularly those with a North-South dimension? The economic well-being of Donegal is often intertwined with the economic activities of Northern Ireland.

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