Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It relates to legislative promises. I have fought hard, along with many others, to get the rejuvenation of rural Ireland in the programme for Government. The allocation of €20 million per year for three years will not buy postage stamps for the applications.

In 2009 we had the White Paper on rural development. In 2012 the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas was set up. Mr. Spillane and others did great work, but this is a talking shop. The Minister, Deputy Humphreys, needs to get out. I wish her well; I wish her nothing but the best. My family in Monaghan are keeping an eye on her as well and report back to me. The Minister needs to get her wellies on and get out into rural communities to see what is going on. We do not need reports, speeches or announcements about smart cars going on four roads to Ballymahon.

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