Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Go raibh maith agat. It is not an issue of difference as to the value or import of what was proposed. I recognise it was important and could contribute a valuable rejuvenation to several identified locations and that because of advancements in technology it should not render the work of these Departments and agencies lesser or make it more difficult. However, clearly there are difficulties and these must be addressed. In the absence of the roll-out of broadband, does the Taoiseach not agree that these matters must be addressed to overcome technological deficiencies in terms of the outworking of these new and particularly bilocated offices, as cited in the earlier instance? The Taoiseach cited an overall figure in his reply on the numbers of those who expressed interest in taking up a decentralised post. Does he have the number that specifically applies to those who are employed in the State agencies?

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