Fine Gael has been slammed for claiming credit in relation to the Center Parcs development.

Fianna TD for Longford Westmeath Robert Troy criticised the party and confirmed that there have been no IDA visits to Longford in the last three years.

Deputy Troy made the comments after literature was circulated by Fine Gael regarding the Center Parcs announcement.

Deputy Troy commented: "The Center Parcs decision to locate in Longford is hugely positive and is to be welcomed. The move will create much needed jobs in the county and will be a major boost to the tourism industry across the entire Midlands region.

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"However this investment came in spite of Government policy. The company itself has acknowledged that it decided to locate in Longford for a number of reasons. These include the suitability of the forest, the road network and the proximity of Knock and Dublin airports.

"Unfortunately this positive announcement has been overshadowed in recent days as a result of a cynical political stunt that is unfolding in Longford - Westmeath. This stunt involves a local Fine Gael TD single handedly claiming credit for Center Parcs’ decision to locate in Co. Longford.

"This is another example of Government spin. Fine Gael is using a commercial decision to mask their neglect of rural Ireland. They have no concrete policy for driving further investment into rural areas that so badly need it."

(CD/MH)