Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

——should have applauded him for what he has done and achieved.

Senator McHugh raised two or three particular issues but does that suggest we expect 100% success from such a broad-based programme in two or three years? Of course, that cannot be done. I have no doubt that the Minister will listen closely to any genuine cases brought to his attention in the same manner he brought about the organic development of this programme. I will go a step further and say that knowing the Minister as I do he would accept any invitation to meet with people on the ground as he has done throughout the country. Lest anybody is for one moment suggesting that only Fianna Fáil supporters are benefiting from this programme, I know of several programmes in which there is cross-community and cross-party co-operation and loyalty. It is important that there be community focus. Trying to contaminate this process will not help the programme or the areas involved and will not provide for improvement in the future. It is not right to suggest there is a political tag attached to this programme which is community orientated.

Yesterday, we discussed the new draft guidelines on rural housing. The Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív has been central to that issue which shows the CLÁR programme does not stand in isolation. It cannot stand in isolation from local authorities, central Government, the commercial world or sporting and cultural activities. It is part of a process. Endeavouring to dissect it in that manner means somebody will have to return to it later on. We will then be back here seeking guidelines on the matter.