Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

First, of all the Ministers who have been supportive of the mid-west region, my team and I have been to the fore. Second, as for Shannon Development and its role, Members may have read the suggestion in the bord snip nua report that Shannon Development should be abolished. I have augmented and supported the development of Shannon Development, as well as the appointment of its chief executive officer to be fully integrated as secretary to the task force. I also provided resources from Forfás to ensure these issues were dealt with. Many pertain to national competitive issues that are ongoing and are being dealt with. I provided an extremely accurate report and response to the task force. I have met many of my colleagues in respect of the delivery of other recommendations. A final report will be produced in due course and in that context, I will continue to support the regional development needs of that area.

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