Gabhaim buíochas leis an Rialtas as an obair le deich mbliana anuas chun tacú le tuath na hÉireann. It is important to look at the last ten years and see the progress that has been made in rural Ireland, with the establishment of this very Department in providing a strategic plan, a focus and funding for every rural community. Through the Local Government Reform Act 2014, I have seen first hand, through the establishment of the local community development committee and as a former chair, the difference it can make.…

I ask that feedback might be taken from local authorities on the applications that were made and the sums that were sought versus what was actually allocated to see what shortfall there was, if any. It is important where good initiatives come forward that they get the full support of the Government and the State. Second, there is a time element as regards the administration burden on local community groups. I ask that the Department give consideration to the establishment of a portal online that would allow the lik…

I wish the Ministers well in the term ahead. I echo the sentiments of Deputy Moynihan in relation to IDA land in Offaly. We have suffered redundancies at Nelipac and Cardinal Health and it is pertinent to see acquisition of land to attract further IDA company investment to the county. There were three visits in 2023 and five in 2024. We need now to secure land in order to secure investment. I invite the Minister to the county to discuss with our local authorities progressing this further.

I wish the Minister and the Minister of State well for the term ahead. I know the Minister well. He has a personal story of growing up on a farm. His is a farm family. With his experience and knowledge, he brings a great amount to the Department. That is only going to benefit farmers over the term ahead. Agriculture is undoubtedly the backbone of our economy. The local economy in Offaly is no different in this regard. We have a long and proud tradition of food production. I acknowledge producers such as the Haslam …

As this is my first time taking to my feet in the Chamber, I want to start by acknowledging, and expressing my sincere gratitude to, the people of Offaly, who have entrusted me with the great honour of representing them in Dáil Éireann, and also my wife, son, family, friends and supporters, who have stood by me every step of the way. I thank them sincerely. The Department of Education has been working well to invest in the provision of additional accommodation and modular units to meet the growing demand in schools…