Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Capital investment is an issue. Whether it is relevant to this Bill is another matter. Obtaining funding for facilities is certainly a significant issue. Another issue is that rental costs and mortgage costs are excluded in the assessment. The Minister might comment on the rationale for that.

Consider the funding for 2018. In a full year, the funding is in the region of €150 million. Am I correct about that? It is obviously very significant. I urge caution in this regard. Can the system be demand led? If it is to be equitable and fair, we want to ensure everyone who wants to participate is eligible and that we will not run out of funding. Can making the scheme demand led be legislated for? This would ensure adequate funding. Obviously, I do not for a second take from the funding of €150 million because it is a massive amount. It is a question of ensuring that it is in place.