Eugene Murphy (Roscommon-Galway, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are delighted that there is an emphasis on rural affairs in A Programme for a Partnership Government and also the return of a Minister with responsibility for rural affairs, namely, Deputy Ring. The most recent Fianna Fáil Government had a similar position and it was held by Deputy Ó Cuív. One of the things that had a great impact on many counties was the announcement by the Minister, Deputy Ring, two years ago to support the agricultural and industrial shows. There are shows in Ballivor, Longford, Strokestown, Mohill, County Leitrim, and Bonniconlon, County Mayo. There are more than 100 shows in all. The funding provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development was significant and important. I read an article by Eithne Dodd in The Sunday Business Post which indicated that funding has been cut back. I want to be fair. The grants are not being taken away entirely but the amounts provided are being reduced. Those agricultural and industrial shows now have increased insurance costs, as well as many other costs. They are vital for local economies and add much to the areas in which they take place. I do not expect the Taoiseach to have an answer today. Will he, however, ask the Minister and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Donohoe, to restore the previous level of funding? It was a great initiative when it was brought in and it is sad that it has been cut back.

See this speech in context