It would have been preferable that a decision on a new programme could have been made sooner but, given the level of interest in the matter and the many and varied issues involved, it has taken longer than had been originally anticipated. However, given its importance, complexity and great significance, I trust the Senator will agree it has been appropriate for the Government to afford this matter the high level of consideration it deserves before reaching a final decision. As Members will be aware, more than 130 urban centres throughout every county have expressed interest in being part of the new programme.