Terry Brennan (Fine Gael)

The project has provided various pieces of farm machinery, including sowing and grinding machines. Water schemes and solar energy systems have been developed in some villages. All of this work has been done voluntarily by Councillor Savage and other councillors in co-operation with the staff of Louth County Council, particularly its management staff. Perhaps the Minister of State might encourage other local authorities to follow the lead of Louth County Council by helping some of the poorest countries in the world. Since Ireland embraced Malawi, it has become a shining light for all other African countries. The work of my colleague, Councillor Savage, and the management and staff of Louth County Council in collecting these moneys has made a major difference to thousands of very poor people. I suggest the Government invite the recently elected President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, to visit this country. I know she would love to do so. I thank the Senators and councillors who have contributed to the fund during the years. I apologise for speaking at such length.