Aisling Dolan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Is it not great to be back? The feeling of excitement is returning again as we are back on our first day. As I am sure the Leader will agree, it is great to be back in our rightful home here in the Seanad Chamber. I hope all Members were able to take a few days holiday for a restful break with family and friends. Congratulations again to Senator Moynihan on her phenomenal news. I think she spent her time very well. I hope she had a honeymoon as well.

I look forward to us working hard in the Seanad on the many challenges we will have ahead of us, especially after an incredibly difficult 18 months. To get businesses back up and going is crucial and encouraging people to continue to shop local as we move in a safe way to the final stage of full reopening will be extremely important.

Ballinasloe is looking outstanding with its new regeneration scheme and streetscape. It has given the town a real boost and it has been so important for local businesses. I wish to acknowledge the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, and the roll-out of the shop enhancement fund under the Department of Rural and Community Development. Six towns in County Galway received this funding and the businesses in the towns in question - Oranmore, Oughterard, Loughrea, Headford, Glenamaddy and Ballygar - will all have the opportunity to upgrade their premises and get a significant amount of support from the local authorities. It is a phenomenal scheme. In County Roscommon, Athleague, Knockcroghery, Roscommon town, Ballaghaderreen and Boyle will benefit. Behind the projects in each of those towns in the Roscommon local authority area were the Tidy Towns associations. They all came together and put in these submissions. It will be phenomenal. It was really important to try to tackle the issue of vacant units in many of these towns. That will drive investment and new retailers, people with an idea for setting up a shop in the town.

There is also construction taking place in Roscommon town. Anyone who lives in the town or has driven through it recently will know that significant roadworks are under way. That is the result of more than €9 million in investment from the urban regeneration fund. It is absolutely incredible. There will be a brand new square, as well as all the other works on Main Street.

I encourage people to grow remote, shop local and come and find a home in the west. There is lots to see and do and we want to welcome them to our brand new cities and towns in the west.