Cecilia Keaveney (Fianna Fail)

I am almost embarrassed to stand up and say nice things about my colleagues who got jobs yesterday, given that Members from the Opposition have done that but said that we should not be doing it. I congratulate Deputy Brian Cowen on his election as Taoiseach and Deputy Brendan Smith on his selection as Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. I wish him well at the WTO talks, which will be difficult, but I know that he is very capable. I also congratulate Deputies Barry Andrews and Pat Carey, but as a female from Donegal, I must commend the Taoiseach on his choice of Tánaiste and I wish Deputy Mary Coughlan well. There is nobody more capable or competent for the post.

Given that an American investment conference is taking place this week in the North, the Leader should ask the Tánaiste to attend the House at the earliest opportunity to see how we can maximise the potential for regional development. If American investment goes into the North, our corporation tax rates in Donegal will be much more attractive than anything that can be offered in the Six Counties. The whole of Ulster should gain from this current conference. I call for a debate on regional development. The Tánaiste will be well able to handle it.