Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Senator Ó Domhnaill has raised a very important point. I previously informed the House that the EU had to contact the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport over moneys that were not drawn down, a matter raised in The Connacht Tribune and in other places. It is important for the Government to give an account of its stewardship in the area and outline how well we are doing in drawing down all possible resources, particularly those that can stimulate growth and investment in rural areas. I come from a rural area and go home to poor quality Internet services. It is a critical issue and one the Government has not taken sufficiently seriously over the years. It is not possible to talk about stimulating investment and growth in rural areas without also talking about the need to improve broadband services.

I welcome the debate to which Senator Walsh has most recently contributed. Every organisation has its proponents of ideas who are respectful and there are others who are rude, bullying and intolerant, as we saw in the abortion debate on all sides of the issue. I always respect the way that GLEN conducts its argumentation. It is always respectful and focused on the issues and arguments. I would welcome if GLEN were to make its statement and disassociate itself from what was said on the Brendan O'Connor's programme.