Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all of the Members who made a contribution. I agree with Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív that we will have many differences in the times ahead. We have had many debates during the years in this House. I also accept his contribution to rural Ireland. When he was a Minister, his heart was in the right place. Many years ago he had responsibility for the areas covered by the new Department and I certainly supported him on rural issues. I hope he will give me the same support in coming years in what I propose to do. He will not agree with everything, but we will debate it n the House and at the committee.

I thank my officials who have worked long and late on the Bill for their support and co-operation. I also thank the House for its support. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for his co-operation as it has been a long day, but I suppose everybody's heart is in the right place.

We have many problems in rural Ireland with which we need to deal, but there are many positive things happening. There are many people living and working in rural Ireland who want to stay there. That is why the Taoiseach chose me to be a member of the Cabinet. The Department is being set up in order that we can try to ensure rural Ireland will get its fair share of the national cake.

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