John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are very clear on this. The centre of excellence will lead, develop and manage. We know only too well that 98% of the economy is driven by 200,000 small companies. They are the backbone of the economy. While we all welcome foreign direct investment, the enhancement of the support service generates innovative small and micro-enterprises. That is why Enterprise Ireland is very committed to promoting innovation in its approach to supporting start-ups, entrepreneurship, developing the capability of the LEO network to set best-in-class standards and a lead role within Enterprise Ireland for the development and review of the service level agreement. This will not be just a change of name. The emphasis will be on the economy and small start-up companies. I have seen them. When I was in Enniscorthy last weekend I saw extraordinary companies employing two and three people which have immense opportunity with the development and oversight of metrics, the quality of local business development and the development of a common approach to mentoring and mentor management.

Enterprise Ireland has taken Deputy Collins's document on board and I have spoken to Julie Sinnamon. Considerable consideration has been given to the service-level agreement. The first-stop shops will promote interaction with local government. I refer to companies with the potential to be start-up companies as manufacturing or service companies. We are encouraging start-up companies and we are working with third level institutions such as GMIT, Castlebar, for example. Mayo will be one of the first out of the traps and we hope to have more counties in the following weeks. I am very optimistic. I have seen the service-level agreement and I know the commitment of local authorities and the staff in the enterprise centres. The purpose of this Government is business in local communities, villages and towns. A sense of enterprise is needed in smaller towns in every county. I assure the Deputy that Enterprise Ireland will make this a priority and action will be taken.