Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I am speaking to the motion because an attack was made on the decentralisation policy that has been pursued by every Administration since the foundation of the State and which has not been implemented until today. It will be implemented within the timeframe. It is a happy day for the people of County Leitrim. My late father sat in this House and on many occasions, along with his contemporaries, sought the decentralisation of Departments to rural areas. I did not believe I would see the day it would happen. There will be 265 jobs in Carrick-on-Shannon. Senator Leyden said it already in respect of Roscommon, but I compliment my parliamentary colleague, Deputy Ellis, who fought for decentralisation and the staff of Leitrim County Council who prepared and laid the groundwork for today's momentous announcement. The county manager said earlier when I gave him the news that the site located in Carrick-on-Shannon will fit adequately the jobs that will be provided there. We are ready, willing and able to take on the challenge and will do so with enthusiasm. I compliment the members of Leitrim County Council and especially the representatives from the Carrick-on-Shannon electoral area who fought assiduously for it. There were times we thought it would never happen, but it has happened and will take place.