Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

It would be a retrograde step to do away with this scheme. Given the present economic downturn, the Minister still should find a way to provide the funding that would ensure the continuation of this programme. Not only should it be continued in the CLÁR areas but it should be extended to all districts because its benefits are enormous. As an electrician, I understand the workings of single phase and three-phase electricity. In respect of agritourism and everything associated with it in rural Ireland, this scheme would be received with open arms in every community nationwide. I press upon the Minister the importance of ensuring it is not lost in the cuts his Department will undertake. His promise in the House today that he will investigate its continuation in both the CLÁR areas and everywhere else certainly would be welcomed.

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