Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I too support the call for a debate on planning, particularly in the context of rural development. The Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, was present for a debate on this issue during the previous session, but the public debate has broadened considerably in the meantime. This week alone two radio programmes featured this issue as well as "The Late Late Show" and many other programmes. It is important to be clear about where the fundamental problems lie. Some 110 county councillors attended a conference on this subject in Caherciveen last weekend. The Minister, Deputy Ó Cuív, once again outlined the Government position. In fairness to the Taoiseach, the record should be set straight. He did not make his first statement in Sligo, he made it several months prior to that in Maam Cross when he outlined his position and that of the Government.