Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

Arising from the news which emerged from County Meath yesterday, I ask for a debate on industrial development, job creation and competitiveness. In recent years, large areas of the country have experienced many job losses as industries left without replacement. The people of these regions, which include significant areas of the midlands extending into County Tipperary, are being told by IDA Ireland, at least unofficially, that there is no hope of ever securing industrial development. This is not acceptable. I would welcome an opportunity to discuss strategies on job creation, industrial development and competitiveness.