Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank all Senators who have contributed so far and thank Senators Norris and Barrett for raising this important issue.

I assure Senator Norris that no snub was intended by sending me in here as Minister of State with responsibility for rural affairs, because my brief charges me with breathing the kind of life the good Senator spoke about into all towns and villages of Ireland. I know what he is speaking about in regard to Dublin and I am very passionate about the towns and villages of Ireland. The good Senator does not have the monopoly on passion.