Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the positive response from the residents in Derrydonnell. Last night they responded positively to the professional approach by the Apple organisation that met all of them.

I call on the state agencies to redouble their efforts and to build on their success. I hope they will attract a major industry to Ballinasloe. It is a town that has all the necessary services and a workforce and is an excellent location.

The renowned songwriter Pete St. John first put Athenry on the international map. He now might have to add a new verse to reflect how busy it is going to be around "The Fields of Athenry" into the future.

In conclusion, I welcome the fact that many of our Ministers will travel around the world during St. Patrick's week to promote Ireland. I hope they will attract more new business to this country and many additional tourists to every region. The announcement is a positive start to the new year and let us build on it during the coming months.