Alan Farrell (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 77: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the level of funding or the possibility of funding available for a voluntary community innovation hub (details supplied) designed to promote and share business to aid job creation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14701/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I understand that the group referred to in the Question is a co-operative which offers low-cost office space for micro-enterprises and seeks to encourage members to collaborate on new projects. The development of policy in relation to supporting small businesses and the funding of micro-enterprises are matters for my colleague, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.

My Department's Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP) is a key tool in providing a service for the long-term unemployed and disadvantaged groups. This programme operates through Local Development Companies (LDCs) and the services provided by LDCs are flexible, independent, locally based and non-bureaucratic. The Group referred to in the question may wish to contact the relevant Local Development Company for its area to establish the supports that may be available through the company.

In addition, my Department is engaging with local authorities to develop a new sectoral strategy to promote employment and support local enterprise by local government in a number of areas. This includes the identification and dissemination of best practice in relation to local enterprise and business support arrangements.