John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

Many people do not realise that. We should grasp any opportunity for job creation in the south east. It may be necessary for the Minister of State and his officials to redraft the Opposition proposals as set out in these amendments. I hope that in his response, the Minister of State will say he can accept them now or, as a second resort, in modified form on Report Stage. I do not think we should miss this opportunity to shape this legislation in a way that would benefit Ireland's employment levels, the Department of Finance's tax revenue capabilities and this county's agriculture industry. I hope the Minister of State will accept the amendments.