Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

I thank every Senator who took part in this debate, particularly those who were supportive in their comments. Senator O'Rourke stressed the importance of education and Senator MacSharry acknowledged the significant work already done in the BMW region. I also thank Senator Mansergh and Senator Kitt. I am as disappointed as Senator Kitt that the National Roads Authority is slow in rolling out projects to Ballinasloe, but that is an issue for the relevant Minister.

There is great movement on the issue of decentralisation and I hope Senator Kitt also finds this to be the case. We have had the usual winging from some of the Senators, particularly Senator Bannon who whinges about the lack of infrastructure in his own region. I was surprised to hear at the weekend Deputy Olivia Mitchell blaming farmers for causing delays in infrastructure projects due to the money they receive for land used for development. Perhaps Senator Bannon might inform the Deputy that farmers receive the market value of their lands and they are entitled to no less.