Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

The Government remains firmly committed to the Limerick regeneration programme, as was reiterated at the end of 2009. The work that has already been done is beginning to have an effect, which Deputy O'Donnell acknowledges. It can be seen not just in the demolition work, but also the investment in Garda resources, education, youth training and health services. This is just as important as any capital moneys allocated. Since the initiative started in mid-2007, up to €50 million has gone into the project. This year, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has committed another €25 million.

Having said that, I accept people need to see positive new developments through growth in new housing, for example. The Government asked the Limerick regeneration agencies to complete their work on the programme and prepare a phase one implementation plan by the end of the first quarter in 2010, at which point the Government will consider the matter again.

While I do not propose to accept the amendment, the Government remains committed to the whole Limerick regeneration master plan.

See this speech in context