In many places in the programme for Government, there is a commitment to rural Ireland. There is also a commitment to excellence in animal health and disease prevention. In the context of that, there is an issue in Sligo with the regional veterinary office. I raised this issue in the House before. I was informed that there was going to be a review. My understanding is that this review has recommended the closure of the Sligo veterinary office. I want to get a commitment from the Government that that is not going to happen, because it would have a huge detrimental impact on the whole rural community of Sligo, Leitrim and the north west. If that facility closed, it would mean there would be no veterinary office anywhere north of the line between Dublin and Galway. That would be totally inappropriate. Will the Government give a commitment that it is going to keep the veterinary office open in Sligo?

It is for the Minister, Deputy Creed, to answer that.

I have answered this question for Deputy Kenny and others who have an interest in the regional veterinary offices, not just in Sligo but also in Kilkenny, Athlone, Cork, Limerick and Backweston. They are a critical part of the offering for the agrifood industry and for the exports they underpin to more than 180 different countries. What the Department has done, which I think is prudent, is review the operation of the laboratory service to see that it is fit for purpose and publish the report, on which there is currently extensive engagement with stakeholders. Notwithstanding the political grandstanding on the issue, there have been no decisions taken on the withdrawal of a service of any form in respect of that report.

That concludes Questions on Promised Legislation. My apologies to the four remaining Deputies who were not reached.