Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)

In an earlier contribution, abuses of the incentives were referred to. I agree entirely on this matter. When we consider the Limerick and mid-Shannon areas and Leitrim and Roscommon, we see there are huge opportunities for tourism development. When we consider the opportunities that exist for entrepreneurs, farmers and residents to develop an income for themselves and become sustainable, we note opportunities are few and far between. This is why I support the Minister's amendment. I hope the scheme can be extended beyond the mid-Shannon area. Visitor statistics show that Leitrim and Roscommon are at the very bottom of the pile, below even Donegal and Sligo. One way to address this is to develop incentives covering the area north and south of the mid-Shannon, including the Limerick area, as referred to by Deputy O'Donnell. I submit strongly that the Minister consider Sligo and Roscommon also.

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