Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister of State outlined, these amendments mirror similar amendments that were put down by my colleagues. We welcome the amendments. It is important, when looking at the new structures, that smaller counties would not be disproportionately affected. Coming, as I do, from an area where the new configuration is Longford-Westmeath, I welcome the fact that, on the Government taking office, it reconfigured the position of Westmeath as it is a much more natural lie for Westmeath to be with Longford. However, while the people of Longford might not like for me to say it, Longford is a much smaller county than Westmeath both in terms of geographical area and population. In any configuration of the education training board, I would not like to see Longford at a disadvantage with regard to Westmeath.

I welcome the fact the Government is taking on board what my colleague has suggested on the make-up and configuration of the new boards. There is a situation where Mayo, Leitrim and Sligo have been grouped together and it is important that each county would have a say in the make-up of the board. I compliment the Government on taking on board our suggestions.

See this speech in context