Vol. 460 No. 3
137 Mr. Davern asked the Minister for Finance the current position regarding decentralisation for Clonmel, County Tipperary; the progress, if any, that has been made in regard to acquiring suitable accommodation; and the number to be facilitated in such accommodation. [1075/96]
139 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Finance his views on decentralisation; the plans, if any he has for further decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1114/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 139 together.
I am of the view that decentralisation has made a significant, positive contribution to economic growth and employment creation in the centres which have benefited from it. While a great deal of progress has been made in implementing the current programme, it will take some time to complete. Clonmel is not included in the current programme decentralisation. Pending completion of the programme and a review of its effectiveness, the Government has no plans to extend decentralisation to any further centres.
