Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

The two major projects in the Deputy's area of County Mayo that I announced early this year have commenced. One is nearly completed, so the Deputy cannot claim that Mayo has been left out of the frame. It has done well.

I will maintain a balance between developing, rural and urban areas. The Government is committed to ensuring sufficient funding for a schools programme. Last year saw the greatest amount of money ever spent and the greatest outturn. For once and for all, I want to put something to bed, namely, money that is left over is committed to projects to be completed in 2010. If one announces a project in 2009, it might take 12-18 months to be completed and paid for. There can be a carry-over into the following year of 10%, representing €84 million this year due to my budget.

I am prepared to do something that might be of importance for Deputies. My officials will be available to make a presentation to the Deputies present regarding all of these matters. They have already done so for others and I would be happy to provide them again.

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