Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

The question in Deputy Rabbitte's name arises from the submission made by Irish Rural Link to the Coiste um Gnóthaí Ealaíon, Spóirt, Turasóireachta, Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta on the national development plan. One of the points the delegation made was that 59% of the population lives in the areas targeted by the plan. The delegates raised issues such as the narrow economic base of many rural areas.

I complimented the Minister earlier on the initiatives taken in regard to the outcome of the report of Comhairle na Tuaithe, as a result of which ten positions are being created on the leisure side. However, it is important to bear in mind that while there are many people who live in rural communities and commute to work, we must always focus on creating economic activity in these areas so that people do not have to go outside their areas to seek employment. Niche food products are an example of a market that could be developed. The entry costs for small food industries are higher than for other types of industry but great potential exists and local raw materials are available. When water and roads are taken away from the €457 million, however, what is left to broaden the economic base of rural areas, particularly CLÁR areas where the population is declining? What will this money do to improve capacity to extend economy activity and job creation in rural areas?

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