Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State for his response and take heart from his statement that the Minister recognises the strength of local identity and the attachment many people in the area have to their historic boundaries, and that this attachment is shared by many elected representatives and will be among the issues providing the context for his decision. If, however, the decision of the boundary committee is to encroach on County Clare then, if it comes before this House and if I am fortunate enough to be a Member of this House at the time, I will not support it under any circumstances.

Members of Clare County Council have come out very strongly in favour of the retention of the boundary as it is, as has Ennis Town Council. I compliment the work of the members and officials of the local authority in putting up an effective defence against a predatory approach by what was once a friendly neighbour. I hope it will be so again when this issue is resolved, whether it be with the help of Solomon or someone else.