Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State, Deputy Smith. In the two minutes that are left to me, I will highlight one or two areas.

Continuing on where Senator Kyne left off in terms of childcare, I am au faitwith what goes on in a community crèche, as I am involved in a community centre. Certainly, the small childcare providers still fear issues around costs, salaries and services. It is an area that needs to be looked at. Overall, I welcome the fact that by 2024, childcare costs will be halved. That is most welcome.

There was much emphasis mentioned in terms of transport but one measure I want to welcome is the inclusion of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road in Limerick. The road has been three quarters built. It has been a real bone of contention for quite a while as the road was going nowhere. It was stopped. I welcome the fact that this is actually mentioned in budget 2024 in terms of delivering on the national development plan.

In terms of housing, for 2024, it is expected there will be 9,300 new-build social houses and the delivery of 6,400 affordable homes. Affordable homes are something that is top of our agenda.

In terms of health, I acknowledge that spending will be up to €22.5 billion, an €808 million increase since the previous budget. Certainly, we need to see an increase in services and delivery and people need to feel safe going to our hospitals. The funding needs to be spent wisely.

Lastly, in terms of agriculture, the agrifood sector plays a vital role in supporting our economy. Culturally, agriculture has played a key role. I welcome that €1.9 billion has been allocated to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. In addition to this allocation, the Department will be administering over €1.2 billion of EU funding in direct payment to farmers. That is most welcome.