Dáil debates

Wednesday, 9 July 2008

National Development Plan: Motion (Resumed)

 

10:00 pm

Photo of Charlie O'ConnorCharlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I would never give the Leas-Cheann Comhairle trouble, as he well knows. It is very important we support what Deputy Hanafin said, namely, that we look after the disadvantaged, unemployed, elderly and people who need our help at this vulnerable time.

I want to acknowledge that the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cúiv, needs our support as he fights for resources. He knows I am a fan of his so he will not mind my saying so. The RAPID programme has been of great benefit to many of our communities, certainly in Dublin South-West and particularly in the Tallaght area. Deputy Curran would want me to say the same about Clondalkin. The Minister should understand that funding is still required for these programmes. The visit by the Minister of State, Deputy Curran, to Tallaght also reminds me that we should be careful that drugs and family support programmes that are required at the best of times are certainly required when times are a little more challenging. It is very important we make that point.

I do not want to be parochial but the Leas-Cheann Comhairle's good friend, Deputy Quinn, was kind enough to mention a school in my constituency, Our Lady's secondary school on Templeogue Road, which will be the subject of a debate on the Adjournment tonight. We could all list all the projects we want, and I would want to support that school and Holy Rosary national school in Ballycragh. The Minister for Education and Science should understand that, as supportive as we on the back benches will be, we must also maintain pressure regarding these very important projects. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle and look forward to Deputy English's contribution.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.