Under the programme for Government, there is a commitment to balanced regional development, rightly so. However, in my county of Offaly, we are particularly disadvantaged given that we have endured the brunt of the just transition, with 53% of the job losses. This is coupled with the fact that Cardinal Health in Tullamore, the main town in the county, will see 315 job losses at the end of this month. It is vital that every possible intervention is made to urgently create more jobs in County Offaly. What actions will the Government take to ensure that priority is given to job creation in County Offaly? If we are to achieve balanced regional development, it is counties like Offaly that need the focus. A focus needs to be put on our county.

I am aware of the bad news that the Deputy’s county has had to confront in terms of job losses. I know the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and the LEOs will work hard to support those who are losing their jobs at a moment when there is already uncertainty across the world. With regard to Offaly, I want to reassure Deputy Nolan and the communities and constituents she represents of the commitment that the Ministers, Deputy Peter Burke and Deputy Dara Calleary, have to balanced regional development and the investment in place behind that. I know, of course, that the Deputy will want to see proof of that so those who have lost a job have confidence they can get another job. That is why the State agencies will work hard to create an environment in which that can happen.