Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I heard what the Minister has said, that the first of these schemes was put in place ten years ago but there has not been a great uptake. I also accept that the figures for 2011 are not available. I agree that if there is a Government commitment to review it then it does not need to be stated in legislation. My proposal would not delay an application for state aid approvals. I do not think that it would obstruct anything. If I had a commitment from him to conduct a review before the end of the year then I would withdraw my amendment.

I do not oppose the section. This type of scheme could play a part in fostering economic activity for certain areas. My party is concerned that they do not reach their maximum potential. Given that there may be potential, or more potential, perhaps the Minister could give me a commitment that he will conduct a review. I am sure that figures will become available before the end of the year which could form part of a review.

I am not pressing my amendment. I simply tabled it to draw attention to an issue that is not working at this time. My claim may be well-founded and my figures were based on conversations with county enterprise boards. I shall leave it to the Minister.