Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire. I welcome the Minister. I was particularly impressed with the presentation by the Minister today. He has provided a four page document but I believe he has touched on many of the relevant issues for us to consider today and to be considered in future.

I acknowledge the work done at community level through the local councils, development bodies and the voluntary sector generally. It is generally accepted that we are particularly lucky in Ireland that the community sector has remained strong, vibrant and focused throughout the years. Often the sector is at its best when it is challenged. We are especially challenged at the moment and we have been challenged in the past. The challenges are not always about economic issues; other challenges arise for every community. Everyone in the Chamber and all Members have direct experience of how a community responded urgently when the situation required it, whether it was someone suffering as a result of a local issue, and the manner in which the community came to the aid of that person is something that has inspired all of us.

I am disappointed that Sinn Féin will not have eight minutes. It is important at such a time as this to get all the contributions we can.