Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Ireland's Ancient East tourism plan was launched earlier this week by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Paschal Donohoe, and the Minister of State, Deputy Michael Ring. The route extends from the Viking city of Waterford through Carlow to Newgrange and the Boyne Valley, where it seems to stop. I come from a medieval town and county, with artifacts and much history, stories and myths, some of which are as old as the Greek Iliad. County Louth should be included, and I hope it will be added to this plan. The Wild Atlantic Way has been a tremendous success and will remain one for years to come. Louth, with its history of Vikings at Annagassan, the round tower at Monasterboice, the kingdom of Oriel and legends such as the Táin Bó Cúailgne, would attract the discerning visitor. These are the places tourists want to visit. I hope we can have a debate on this extension of Ireland's Ancient East to include the historic county of Louth.

I support the call by my colleagues across the House for an examination of councillors' remuneration. Their duties have no doubt increased and they have taken on more responsibility. Many of them are now full-time public representatives at the coalface of democracy. The benefits from what is happening with the economy must be considered for these councillors throughout the country.