Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his clarification regarding the existing legislation. However, what he has said does not yet reassure me that the Bill as presented will not change the existing levels of service for people in rural areas. I accept there may be geographic conditions affecting islands and similar places. However, we have a system that works and is not broken. It is acknowledged by all and sundry that the system works and serves the community well. Can the Minister assure the House that this Bill will not change the existing levels of service for rural dwellers?

The Minister did not acknowledge in his response the concerns expressed by Senators regarding the diminution of service in rural areas. That is the nub of our concern. If the Minister can alleviate that concern, we will succeed in getting the legislation passed more easily. However, I have not got that reassurance from the Minister.