Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

We are told rural pubs close at the rate of one per day. This is the steepest decline ever recorded in the country. We saw what happened to small post offices and shops. Rural Ireland is being decimated. Will the Leader tell the House what plans, if any, the Government has to address this appalling vista? I agree with the recommendation that the Government should introduce rates relief to rural pubs and reductions in vehicle registration tax for those publicans who provide transport for their customers. It is an important social service. We do not want to see the character of our rural villages and small towns disappear. It is an abominable change and needs to be addressed seriously.

I agree with the remarks of Senator O'Toole on the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement, which deals with many important and serious matters. Surely the few extra staff required by Paul Appleby can be provided.