John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

The Government is only in office since March of this year. The previous Government may have given a commitment on a proposed action plan but this is this Government's first commitment on an action plan for the south-east region. The Minister has clearly indicated that the relevant Ministers and Departments must devise a plan within a month. I have no doubt that the Minister will meet with all public representatives when that timeframe is up. We must await identification of the weaknesses and strengths of the region.

On the university issue, the Minister for Education and Skills is currently engaged in a review process. Agencies such as Science Foundation Ireland and Enterprise Ireland have continued to provide support to the many excellent research developments taking place in Waterford IT, which have enhanced its reputation. The process has been accelerated. The Government is conscious of the disproportionate lack of investment in Waterford from the State agencies, despite their successes. Indigenous Enterprise Ireland companies have never had higher export levels and the IDA is consistently attracting foreign direct investment. Our job will be to prioritise Waterford in every way we can. The action plan will be formulated in discussion with every parliamentarian in the region and the voluntary and private sector employees and staff. The entitlements of staff will be at the forefront of Government's thinking.