Mr. Tom Hayes:

This is a valid point.

That is where sub-supply comes into play. We are working very closely with IDA Ireland. When the IDA is involved in a new investment or in the expansion of an existing operation, we are aware of the visit and we will introduce client companies to the foreign investor. While I am not saying that it cannot be improved, we are working with the IDA to ensure that when there is foreign investment, local companies which can supply or sub-supply to that operation are introduced.

Likewise, we are working in the south east with a whole cohort of companies that have come together to establish their own network called the FUSE initiative. That cluster is looking at how the larger local companies can source more product and service from smaller companies in the region. That is a major market and it is an area. While the consumer in Ireland is finding it difficult, the multinational corporations and the larger companies, such as Kerry, are sourcing significant inputs. We should take advantage as much as possible of the opportunities they present. One of the objectives of the clustering programme is to ensure companies come together to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves with the larger suppliers. I will ask my colleague, Ms Battersby, to comment on clustering.