Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

I am sure decentralisation will make a similar difference to other towns. It has been mentioned that few jobs are to be decentralised west of the Shannon, but the first decentralisation programme in the early 1990s focused on that region to an overwhelming extent. The two programmes have to be considered together. Not only does today's announcement represent a fulfilment of many promises that were made, but it also dispels some of the fears expressed when the national spatial strategy was published. Many people came to the pessimistic conclusion at that time that all decentralisation, if it was to happen, would be concentrated in hubs and gateways, but that has not transpired to be the case. Decentralisation is about spreading wealth around the country, which is very important. I wish the Minister of State, who will be in charge of implementing this process, the very best in that regard. Along with my colleagues, I will give him every assistance if anything needs to be done at a local level. I appreciate that there will be disappointment in places in south Tipperary, such as Carrick-on-Suir.