Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

The Senator has forced me to be quick. Those rail lines will be totally upgraded and there will be significant investment in the rolling stock. Iarnród Éireann was recently given approval for the extension of the rail network track and signalling project to the Westport and Ballina lines.

A number of Senators referred to specific projects in the transport area and these are matters to be dealt with by the relevant Minister. The Government is providing unprecedented levels of investment in transport, including public transport. In the period 2005-09, the Government will provide €10.15 billion. I remind Senators that there is pressure for spending in other important areas, particularly in health, and therefore expenditure and investment must be prioritised by the Government.

Senator Phelan expressed his support for continuing investment in infrastructure after 2006 which I welcome. This is in line with Government policy as set out in the multi-annual capital envelopes. However, I do not agree with his contention that our approach to investment in roads is out of line with the national spatial strategy. The key objective is to provide good links between the national spatial strategy gateways. The national development plan and post-2006 investment will achieve this aim.

The country's employment growth rate is one of the best in Europe. This proves that the country is competitive but we must remain vigilant. Employment rates are rising and employment growth is also in evidence in the BMW region.