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

Another proposal would be that any tax back be invested in shares in order that a business would not have to find the money on the first day to invest in the shares and then draw back the tax, which could take quite a while. The issue with the EIS is similar in that it is too onerous a task. If we are serious about trying to fill that gap, what we should really do is let people invest in a business, have it approved by the State and then grant tax relief. We will try to push that proposal on our side of the House.

Ten years ago no female entrepreneur was given maternity leave. I must give credit to Fianna Fáil because it introduced maternity leave for the self-employed about nine years ago. I attended an event recently in connection with the Tús programme, under which unemployed people were directed to work in a particular area. Even though they found it challenging at the beginning, the biggest advantage was the boost in self-confidence given to the participants. After six or eight months they wanted the programme to be extended to two years. Even though the money they received did not really change - they received an extra €20 a week - I emphasise the importance of this programme and agree with Mr. O'Sullivan. Everybody thinks the money is important - it is - but the sense of self-worth and the contribution to the community, even if it is only through a social enterprise project, are very important.