Áine Collins (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is very difficult for them. We must do a great deal more, particularly in the context of providing soft supports. Everyone present is aware of my interest in this regard, especially in the area of mentoring and how we can assist people. There is major work to be done in respect of this matter by the LEOs. I have stated on many previous occasions that we must stop placing people behind structures. We spend far too much time discussing where particular LEOs should be located. I really do not care whether they are located in Mallow, Cork city, Dublin or wherever. I want those involved with them to go out and meet business people and ask how they can assist them. Rather than networking, there is a need for real and much greater engagement. Those to whom I refer must meet people face to face in order to discover what are the difficulties they face. If this is done, we might then be able to solve some of those difficulties.