Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

In respect of the objectives for jobs, how will the Government deal with austerity and the consumer confidence and spending factors? The elephant in the room in this debate is the black economy. Small businesses and the Revenue Commissioners estimate that we are losing €5 billion per annum in taxes. Businesses and the State are losing out to rogue operators. How will the Taoiseach respond to that issue given that it is costing €5 billion?

The report refers to county enterprise boards. I urge the Taoiseach to be careful in this regard because some of the county enterprise boards have been very successful at creating jobs.

The Taoiseach appears to have run away from reform of the existing upward only rent review leases. This was promised by the Government prior to the general election. Approximately 200 small businesses close every month because of rates, charges and high rents.

Did he say the Government has no role in creating jobs? Does he not see a role for the State or semi-State sector in creating jobs in Ireland?

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