At the Questions and Answer session with General Election candidates organised by Athy Chamber of Commerce on April 23, there was a great deal of discussion about the need for the decentralisation of a Government Department to Athy. In common with all the other candidates, I fully support that proposal.
I am concerned, however, by a recent statement from Minister of State Eamonn O Cuiv that he has got the agreement of Minister for Finance, Charlie McCreevy, that "particular consideration" will be given to CLAR areas (in the West and in Border areas), and that those areas will be given "a special priority in the decision-making process".
Any such special consideration for other areas can only reduce Athy's prospects, and cast doubt over the real commitment of the FF/PD Government parties to Athy.
