Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

Last weekend 40 jobs were lost in Carlow while today a further 60 jobs have gone. Some 50 jobs are also to be lost in south Kilkenny. This is not good news for the families concerned four weeks before Christmas. Will the leader invite the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney, to the House to ask her about her Department's plans to put pressure on the IDA to get investment around the country? She is aware that Athlone was recently turned down in favour of Blanchardstown as a factory location. We need to ensure there is development around the country and not just in Dublin. Areas outside Dublin are rapidly losing jobs.

A gentleman in Waterford appears to have profiteered from getting 12 penalty points on his driving licence by placing a bet in Paddy Power Bookmakers.